Acquired nonmalignant tracheoesophageal fistula
Abi Ghanem, M.; Azar, E.; Abu Khalil, B.
Le Journal medical libanais. Lebanese medical journal 59(3): 162-164
2011
ISSN/ISBN: 0023-9852 PMID: 22259906 Document Number: 649702
Acquired nonmalignant tracheoesophageal fistula is a rare clinical entity and a difficult problem to diagnose and manage. We report a 59-year-old woman diagnosed with a tracheoesophageal fistula secondary to prolonged intubation. The diagnosis was delayed for a year, hence her mild symptoms; cough and dysphagia mainly to liquids. These symptoms were thought to be side effects of her psychiatric medications especially that she had a buccal and lingual dyskinesia. She later had a trial of conservative treatment that failed and then she underwent surgical resection of the fistula and interposition of a muscle flap. Acquired nonmalignant tracheoesophageal fistula is a preventable disease in intubated patient if some measures are taken, but even with the use of the newer endotracheal tubes (high-volume, low-pressure cuffs) this complication can still occur. The surgical treatment remains the best option.