[Esophagus: postoperative aspects]

Abstract

Although endoscopy has replaced radiology for the diagnosis of diseases of the oesophagus, postoperative imaging still remains essential. The radiological investigation depends on the initial disease, and its technique is adapted to the suspected complication and the type of operation performed. Immediately postoperatively, a barium swallow allows verification of the surgery before reintroducing food. The early diagnosis of possible complications is based on the barium swallow and CT scan. At a longer interval after the operation, medical imaging, particularly barium swallow, allows anatomical and functional postoperative surveillance. Relapses of the initial disease, particularly neoplastic recurrences can be distinguished from an intercurrent disease or a mechanical complication due to the operation.