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An Improved Technique for Alimentation of the Debilitated Patient

Mario J. Acquarelli, MD; Gary Fenno, MD; Paul H. Ward, MD

Arch Otolaryngol. 1972;96(5):453-456.

Abstract
Cervical esophagostomy is an effective method of providing long-term tubal alimentation for the chronically ill and debilitated patient. Elimination of an unsightly feeding tube and unpleasant irritation to the nose and upper-airway passages contributes to the patient's comfort and wellbeing. Cervical esophagostomy eliminates the inconveniences of gastrostomy and is not accompanied by skin irritation caused by regurgitation of food. The technique is superior to and should, in the future, replace gastrostomy for patients with swallowing problems. The many advantages discussed far surpass the few complications encountered. New modifications of the technique have lessened the incidence of complications, which should lead to greater acceptance of the procedure.

Author Affiliations
Los Angeles

From the Department of Surgery, UCLA School of Medicine, and the Wadsworth Veterans Hospital, Los Angeles.

Footnotes
Accepted for publication Feb 15, 1972.

Presented as a motion picture at the 55th annual meeting of the Pacific Coast Oto-Ophthalmological Society Program, Honolulu, July 29, 1971.

Reprint requests to the Division of Head and Neck Surgery, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles 90024 (Dr. Ward).

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ABSTRACT