Prosthetic replacement of esophageal segments

Summary Cylinders fabricated from a new hydrophilic polymer, Hydron, were used for segmental esophageal replacement in 24 animals. Most of the 11 early deaths were related to disruption of the upper anastomosis caused by longitudinal distraction of the esophagus. Thirteen animals survived from 1½ to 9 months. With the exception of 3 bilaterally vagectomized dogs, long-term survivors maintained or gained weight. Esophagrams demonstrated widely patent conduits and, in most animals, some degree of extravasation at the upper anastomosis. This was correlated with necropsy evidence of absent fibrous ingrowth into the Dacron velour sheath in this region of the implant. Complete stricture occurred in 1 dog that regurgitated a prosthesis at 3½ months. Teflon felt provided inadequate biologic fixation of the prosthesis in which it was used. Hydron possesses distinctive properties that readily permit its modification toward the development of an improved esophageal substitute. We wish to express our sincere appreciation to Fred Selsey and Curtis Lee for their able assistance.