Closure of minor tracheoesophageal fistulae with calcium hydroxlapatite
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Updated: May 14, 2026

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Published on: April 14, 2023
Anand V Kasbekar1, Ian W Sherman
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Arrowe Park Hospital, Wirral, UK.
Objective:
To demonstrate a novel technique for the closure of a pinhole tracheoesophageal fistula using Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite).
Methods:
Two patients underwent closure of a persistent tracheoesophageal fistula with four quadrant injections of Radiesse around the fistulous tract.
Results:
Both patients had their fistulas successful closed. The first patient died after 3 months due to lung metastasis. The second patient required a further attempt at closure with Radiesse injection and has been without a leak for 18 months at his last follow up appointment.
Conclusion:
We feel this is an acceptable minimally invasive method to close a persistent pinhole tracheoesophageal fistula after failed management with chemical cautery.
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