Fatal hematemesis due to erosion of a retro-esophageal right subclavian artery by an esophagogastric tube
Gossot, D.; Nussaume, O.; Kitzis, M.; Cohen, G.; Chalaux, G.; Andreassian, B.
Presse Medicale 14(31): 1655-1656
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0755-4982 PMID: 2932707 Document Number: 265514
A case of fatal haematemesis due to erosion of a retro-oesophageal right subclavian artery by a nasogastric tube is reported. In view of this exceptional but extremely serious complication, no oesophageal tube should be used in patients known to have this abnormal anatomical arrangement. Systematic treatment of aberrant subclavian arteries should perhaps be considered when it can be performed during thoracic surgery.