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The Sengstaken-Blakemore tube: uses and abuses
1Department of Anaesthesia and Surgical Intensive Care, Alexandra Hospital, 378 Alexandra Road, Singapore 159964. seetedwin@gmail.com
Singapore Medical Journal
|August 30, 2008
Summary
The Sengstaken-Blakemore tube, rarely used today, saved a woman
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Vascular Surgery
- Medical Devices
Background:
- The Sengstaken-Blakemore tube (SBT) is infrequently used in the 21st century due to available endoscopic interventions and its associated complications.
- Complications include esophageal and gastric ulceration and perforation.
Observation:
- A case report details a 53-year-old Indian woman with a rare aortoesophageal fistula.
- The patient presented with potentially fatal exsanguination.
Findings:
- The Sengstaken-Blakemore tube was utilized as a life-saving measure to control hemorrhage from the aortoesophageal fistula.
- Rare but severe complications of SBT insertion and presence were also observed, including acute airway obstruction and bronchoesophageal fistula.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare, life-saving application of the Sengstaken-Blakemore tube in managing aortoesophageal fistula.
- It also underscores the critical importance of recognizing and managing the potential severe complications associated with SBT use.
