[Delayed diagnosis of esophageal perforation]

Esophageal perforation is a rare complication of endotracheal intubation. Usually clinical symptoms are manifested shortly after the injury. Delayed diagnosis and treatment are associated with high morbidity and mortality. In a 38-year-old woman esophageal perforation was diagnosed 31 days after its occurrence, but prompt treatment, including surgery, led to a successful outcome. It is recommended that all available means be used to diagnose suspected cases of this fatal complication as early as possible.