Operative approach to the left cervical esophagus - position and skin incision

This figure depicts the skin incision in the left neck, as the preferred approach to the perforated cervical esophagus. The patient is positioned supine, with a support under the head and the back. The head is extended to enhance exposure of the esophagus. The incision is made medial to the left sternocleidomastoid muscle. If the perforation occurs in the right cervical esophagus, the approach is through the right side of the neck.