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Cervical esophageal diverticulum associated with an impacted denture: a case report
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, Frenchay Hospital, Bristol, UK.
Canadian Journal of Surgery. Journal Canadien De Chirurgie
|December 1, 1991
Summary
A swallowed denture caused a delayed esophageal pouch in a young man. Early upper endoscopy is recommended for foreign body ingestion, even after a normal barium swallow.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Otolaryngology
- Radiology
Background:
- Foreign body ingestion, particularly of radiolucent objects like dentures, can present diagnostic challenges.
- Delayed complications from esophageal foreign bodies are possible despite initial normal imaging.
- The management of esophageal foreign bodies requires careful consideration of diagnostic and therapeutic modalities.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old man presented with a delayed complication two years after swallowing a radiolucent upper denture.
- Initial neck X-rays and barium swallow examinations were normal immediately following the ingestion.
- A follow-up barium swallow revealed a cervical esophageal pouch containing the ingested denture.
Findings:
- The case highlights the potential for a radiolucent foreign body to cause a late-developing esophageal pouch.
- Esophageal diverticula formation can occur secondary to chronic irritation or obstruction by foreign bodies.
- Surgical intervention was required for denture removal from the esophageal pouch.
Implications:
- Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy should be considered for suspected esophageal foreign body ingestion, irrespective of initial barium swallow results.
- Endoscopic removal is the preferred treatment for esophageal foreign bodies.
- Surgical management remains an option for select cases of esophageal foreign body impaction and associated complications.