Preservation Of The Vagus Nerves In The Surgical Treatment Of Esophageal Carcinoma

This article reviews the recent studies on the anatomy and physiology of vagus nerve and the influences of vagotomy on the secretion of digestive fluid and motility of the gastrointestinal tract. Reports on indications, techniques and results of preserving vagus nerve in the surgical treatment for carcinoma of the esophagus were also introduced. Some methods of determining the functions of vagus nerve both intraoperatively and postoperatively were discussed. The problems of how to manage the vagus nerve properly, and how to preserve as much of its functions as possible without violating the principle of surgical oncology in the treatment of carcinoma of the esophagus have been of much concern nowadays. Further research work on this subject. therefore. would be helpful to find the solution.