[Ruptura of the thoracic esophagus due to closed abdominal trauma]

A S Cabral Júnior1, G Furlanetto, P F Silva

  • 1Serv. de Cir. Pediát., Fac. de Med. de Santo Amaro, Hosp. Benef. Portuguesa de São Paulo.

AMB : Revista Da Associacao Medica Brasileira
|April 1, 1990
PubMed

Insights

A rare pediatric esophageal rupture from blunt abdominal trauma required esophagectomy after initial repair failed. Esophageal reconstruction with esophagocoloplasty led to a successful 5-year outcome in this case study.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Trauma Surgery

Background:

  • Blunt abdominal trauma in children is uncommon.
  • Esophageal rupture presents a significant surgical challenge.

Observation:

  • A 5-year-old girl sustained esophageal lacerations from a washtub fall.
  • Initial surgical repair with gastrostomy and parenteral nutrition failed, leading to recurrent esophago-pleural fistula.

Findings:

  • An esophagectomy and cervical esophagostomy were ultimately necessary.
  • Esophageal reconstruction via esophagocoloplasty achieved a cure after 5 years of follow-up.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the complexities of pediatric esophageal trauma.
  • While conservative management is preferred, extensive interventions may be required for severe injuries.
  • Esophagocoloplasty is a viable option for esophageal reconstruction in children.

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