Quality of Life after Esophageal Reconstruction with Colon for Benign Esophageal Disease

Jeong, In Seok; Song, Sang Yun; Na, Kook Joo

Abstract

Esophageal reconstruction with colon after esophagectomy for benign esophageal disease is widely performed; however the quality of life after colon interposition was rarely assessed. We conducted a retrospective investigation about quality of life after colon interposition for benign esophageal disease in Chonnam National University Hospital (CNUH). From December 1988 to April 2004, 31 patients underwent colon interposition for benign esophageal disease. Self assessment of quality of life was carried out by telephone-interview, and complete data were obtained only in 17 patients. The mean age was 40.9+/-20.0 years and a male-to-female ratio 11 : 6. The average time to study after colon interposition was 59.3+/-48.3 months. The questionnaires consisted of 6 items (change of diet, change of body weight, change of defecation, medication for GI problem, change of ordinary activity, self-assessment of quality of life). In all patients, type of diet was solid food and number of meals per day was 3 times. No significant change was observed in body weight, bowel habit and daily activities compared with pre-operative status. 12 patients (70.6%) required no more medication after operation. Regarding quality of life assessed by patient themselves, 15 patients (88.2%) found it satisfactory after the operation. We conclude that esophageal reconstruction with colon in benign esophageal disease is a useful method when the stomach is not available for esophageal substitution.