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Esophageal perforation in a sword swallower
1Department of Cardiovascular Sugery, Christus St Joseph Hospital, Houston, Texas 77002, USA.
Texas Heart Institute Journal
|May 2, 2001
Summary
Sword swallowing caused a rare esophageal perforation in a 59-year-old man. Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention, including esophagectomy, were crucial for his recovery.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Case Reports
Background:
- Esophageal perforation is a serious condition with various causes.
- Sword swallowing is an uncommon activity with potential for severe injury.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old male performer experienced esophageal perforation due to sword swallowing.
- Initial diagnosis was confirmed via esophagogram; surgical repair was attempted.
Findings:
- A persistent leak and patient deterioration led to a transhiatal esophagectomy with cervical esophagogastrostomy.
- This is the first reported case of esophageal perforation from sword swallowing in medical literature.
Implications:
- Highlights an unusual mechanism for a potentially lethal esophageal injury.
- Emphasizes the importance of prompt diagnosis and tailored surgical management for esophageal perforations.
- Recovery is possible with aggressive treatment, though the causative activity must cease.