228. THORACOACROMIAL ARTERY PERFORATOR FLAP REPAIR OF ACQUIRED INTRATHORACIC NONMALIGNANT TRACHEOESOPHAGEAL FISTULAS THROUGH A MIDSTERNAL INCISION APPROACH

Abstract

Abstract Background Acquired intrathoracic nonmalignant tracheoesophageal fistulas (TEFs) are rare and challenging surgical problems. They can constitute a life-threatening condition due to severe pulmonary complications and poor nutrition. The current treatment strategy for TEFs is controversial, and postoperative mortality and complication morbidity have been ignored in recent studies. Here, we introduce our innovative experience repairing acquired tracheoesophageal fistulas with a thoracoacromial artery perforator flap, in which no mortality or complications were observed within 180 days after the operation. Methods Surgical repair with a thoracoacromial artery perforator flap through a midsternal incision approach was performed in 3 patients. During the procedure, a midsternal incision was made. After the thymus and anterior mediastinal fat were resected, and the left innominate vein was transected, the trachea and esophagus were mobilized. The trachea was incised and pulled to the cranial and caudal sides. Then, the thoracoacromial artery perforator flap was harvested and transferred into the superior mediastinum for esophageal reconstruction. Subsequently, the trachea was anastomosed end to end after debridement, and the left innominate vein was either anastomosed or not. Results Two patients developed esophageal anastomotic leakage postoperatively and healed well after nonsurgical treatment. No mortality or other complications were observed at 180 days after the operation. Conclusion Repair of acquired tracheoesophageal fistulas using a thoracoacromial artery perforator flap through a midsternal incision approach is an effective, safe surgical treatment.