Tracheoesophagogastric anastomosis fistula: a rare complication of esophagectomy

Ann Thorac Surg. 1995 Sep;60(3):690-3. doi: 10.1016/0003-4975(95)00284-r.

Abstract

Fistulas between trachea and esophagogastric anastomosis after esophagectomy are uncommon. We describe 2 patients with such a lesion successfully managed with single-stage repair. The fistula was divided, the tracheal defect was closed directly or with a free pericardial graft, and the esophagogastric anastomosis was redone. A muscle or pleural flap was used to separate the tracheal and digestive suture lines. This treatment of a potentially life-threatening condition yielded excellent results without postoperative complications.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Anastomosis, Surgical / adverse effects*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / surgery
  • Esophageal Fistula / etiology*
  • Esophageal Fistula / surgery
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Esophagectomy / adverse effects*
  • Gastric Fistula / etiology*
  • Gastric Fistula / surgery
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Muscle, Skeletal / transplantation
  • Pericardium / transplantation
  • Pleura / transplantation
  • Surgical Flaps
  • Tracheoesophageal Fistula / etiology*