P Agha-Mir-Salim1, R Beck, M Bloching, A Berghaus. 1. Klinik für Hals-, Nasen-, Ohrenkrankheiten, Gesichts- und Halschirurgie, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Esophageal perforations are the most frequent complications of endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Life-threatening consequences such as mediastinitis, septic disease, or multiple organ failure are possible. Traditional surgical and conservative methods of treatment should be distinguished. In serious cases, thoracotomy in particular is a high-risk operation. PATIENTS AND RESULTS: This case demonstrates the successful endoscopic treatment of an esophageal perforation with mediastinal empyema by fibrin gluing. CONCLUSIONS: Esophageal perforations up to 20 cm aboral and a maximum diameter of 1.5 cm could be treated by rigid endoscopical fibrin gluing. High-risk patients could be managed effectively avoiding extensive surgery.
BACKGROUND: Esophageal perforations are the most frequent complications of endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Life-threatening consequences such as mediastinitis, septic disease, or multiple organ failure are possible. Traditional surgical and conservative methods of treatment should be distinguished. In serious cases, thoracotomy in particular is a high-risk operation. PATIENTS AND RESULTS: This case demonstrates the successful endoscopic treatment of an esophageal perforation with mediastinal empyema by fibrin gluing. CONCLUSIONS: Esophageal perforations up to 20 cm aboral and a maximum diameter of 1.5 cm could be treated by rigid endoscopical fibrin gluing. High-risk patients could be managed effectively avoiding extensive surgery.