Citation

Shikowitz MJ, Levy J, Villano D, Graver LM, Pochaczevsky R. Laryngoscope 1996; 106(2 Pt 2 Suppl 78): 1-12.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1996, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/00005537-199602001-00001

PMID

8569409

Abstract

Caustic material ingestion, either accidental or intentional, may result in tissue and organ destruction leading to a wide range of complications, including loss of speech and the ability to eat. The esophagus can be reconstructed successfully, but reopening the larynx and upper airway poses a significant therapeutic dilemma. External reconstruction may put the neoesophagus at risk. Loss of the normal swallowing mechanism and the protective supraglottic structures often results in fatal aspiration. The authors present three cases of successful endoscopic laser recannulation of the larynx with esophageal replacement. The discussion includes surgical technique and the tools used to determine the success of the reconstruction, including computed tomographic scanning, modified barium swallow, placement of an upper esophageal anastomosis, psychologic support, and speech and swallowing therapy.

Language: en

Keywords

Adult; Burns, Chemical; Deglutition Disorders; Esophageal Diseases; Female; Humans; Larynx; Laser Therapy; Male; Postoperative Complications; Speech Therapy; Suicide, Attempted