Enterobronchial fistula
Clarke, H.J.; Kwan, A.; Wright, E.S.; Edstrom, H.W.; Harris, R.
Canadian Journal of Surgery. Journal Canadien de Chirurgie 27(2): 185-186
1984
ISSN/ISBN: 0008-428X PMID: 6704828 Document Number: 230447
Enterobronchial fistula is a rare condition. The authors describe a 47-year-old man who had a fistula between the small bowel and tracheobronchial tree, 8 years after resection of an adrenal carcinoma. The report illustrates the difficulties in diagnosis and the surgical treatment. In particular, the use of hyperosmolar, water-soluble contrast medium in radiologic investigations is to be avoided and the use of a double-lumen endotracheal tube is mandatory if a general anesthetic must be given. Despite its rarity, enterobronchial fistula can be diagnosed through a carefully taken history, confirmed safely by roentgenography and cured surgically.