This paper discusses the feasibility of using a free pericardial patch in repairing defects of the esophagus. The experimental model used is the dog. A piece of the side wall of the esophagus is first excised. This defect in the esophagus is then covered
with a free patch of pericardium. The animals are then sacrificed at sequential dates and the grafted site submitted for microscopic examination. The results show that a free graft of pericardium when used as a patch can prevent leakage of esophageal contents and allow healing of the defect without gross narrowing of the lumen.