Stricture associated with primary tracheoesophageal puncture after pharyngolaryngectomy and free jejunal interposition.

BACKGROUND Free jejunal interposition has been one of the standard reconstructive options for patients undergoing total laryngopharyngoesophagectomy. Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) done primarily is a well-accepted means of voice restoration. The rapid recovery of swallowing and communication in patients who have advanced cancer of the upper aerodigestive tract is a valid goal. The objective of this study was to evaluate the functionality and complications of primary TEP in patients with a free jejunal interposition graft. METHODS Twenty-four consecutive patients who had free jejunal interposition were studied. Thirteen of these patients had a primary TEP. Stricture was assessed through barium swallow, laryngoscopy, and CT scan. RESULTS A statistically significant greater number of patients had stricture develop after primary TEP (p < .0325). All these patients had stricture develop at the distal anastomosis. These patients also tended to have a poorer quality of diet. Moreover, speech with a TEP prosthesis in patients with a free jejunal interposition was less intelligible and functional than speech with a TEP prosthesis after simple laryngectomy. CONCLUSIONS This article recognizes an increased incidence of stricture formation after primary TEP as compared with non-TEP in patients undergoing pharyngolaryngectomy with free jejunal interposition. The morbidity and possible etiology of this complication are discussed. This clinical data have been translated into a change in clinical practice.