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Perforation of cervical oesophagus
A Shaligram1, N Dugar, R Capper
1Department of Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery, Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Doncaster, UK. abhijitshaligram@aol.com
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|April 6, 2005
Summary
Spontaneous esophageal perforation is rare and usually occurs in the chest. This case highlights an unusual cervical esophageal perforation caused by an unexpected ingested foreign body.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Spontaneous esophageal perforation is a rare but life-threatening condition.
- Typically, perforations occur in the thoracic esophagus due to increased intraluminal pressure or external trauma.
Observation:
- This report details an atypical case of esophageal perforation.
- The perforation was located in the cervical region of the esophagus, a highly unusual site.
Findings:
- An ingested foreign body, previously unsuspected, was identified as the cause of the cervical esophageal perforation.
- Diagnostic imaging and subsequent examination confirmed the foreign body's role.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering foreign bodies in the etiology of cervical esophageal perforations.
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for foreign body ingestion in esophageal perforation cases, even when not initially apparent.