Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Open Tracheostomy Gastric Acid Aspiration Murine Model of Acute Lung Injury Results in Maximal Acute Nonlethal Lung Injury
Published on: February 26, 2017
Tracheoesophageal fistula after caustic ingestion
Eduardo Crema1, Marcelo Cunha Fatureto, Marcel Noronha Gonzaga
1Department of Surgical Gastroenterology, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brazil.
Caustic ingestion can cause rare tracheoesophageal fistulas. This case report details a successful surgical reconstruction for a patient with a complex fistula following corrosive substance ingestion.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Tracheoesophageal fistulas (TEFs) are rare, with caustic ingestion being a significant etiological factor.
- Caustic ingestion can lead to severe esophageal injury, potentially resulting in TEF formation.
Observation:
- A 27-year-old male presented with symptoms of retrosternal pain, cough, dyspnea, and hoarseness 14 days after ingesting a caustic substance.
- Upper digestive tract endoscopy confirmed the presence of a tracheoesophageal fistula.
Findings:
- The patient underwent surgical management including cervical exclusion of esophageal transit and gastrostomy.
- Nutrient transit was successfully reconstructed using pharyngocoloplasty.
Implications:
- This case highlights a viable surgical approach for managing complex tracheoesophageal fistulas secondary to caustic ingestion.
- Pharyngocoloplasty offers a reconstructive option for restoring esophageal continuity and improving patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Clinical Manifestations:
Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
Tracheostomy Decannulation
Description of the Procedure
Decannulation refers to the permanent removal of the tracheostomy tube, signaling the resolution of the condition that initially necessitated the tracheostomy. The process requires a well-coordinated interplay between...
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Endotracheal Intubation II: Nursing Management
1. Nursing Care of Patients Before Intubation
Before the endotracheal intubation procedure, nurses play an essential role in ensuring the process goes smoothly. The nurses must be familiar with intubation...
