A specially configured esophageal-gastric tube can be inserted into a
patient's esophagus with the tip of the tube in the region of an
end-to-end anaotomosis connection. The joined members are occluded
upstream and downstream of the anastomosis connection. Fluid is pumped
into the occluded section through the esophageal-gastric tube until a
desired pressure level is attained. The anastomosis connection then is
checked for leaks. The invention also includes a bougie having an end
portion made of a material suitable for resisting electro-cauterization
temperatures.