Unexpected complication of oesophagoscopy: iatrogenic aortic injury in a child

Orhan Tezcan1, Menduh Oruc2, Mahir Kuyumcu3

  • 1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Medical School of Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Turkey.

Insights

Oesophagoscopy for foreign body removal can cause rare but serious aortic injury. Prompt surgical repair is crucial for successful outcomes in pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Pediatric Surgery

Background:

  • Oesophagoscopy is a common procedure for foreign body removal.
  • While generally safe, unexpected complications can arise during oesophagoscopy.
  • Iatrogenic aortic injury is a rare but severe complication associated with this procedure.

Observation:

  • A six-year-old male presented with symptoms of foreign body ingestion.
  • During oesophagoscopy, profuse bleeding occurred, necessitating balloon tamponade.
  • Thoracic contrast tomography confirmed a thoracic aortic injury.

Findings:

  • The patient underwent immediate open surgical aortic repair.
  • The oesophageal injury was primarily repaired concurrently.
  • The patient achieved a full recovery and was discharged on postoperative day 15.

Implications:

  • Oesophagoscopy carries a risk of fatal complications, including aortic injury.
  • Management of such complications requires specialized surgical expertise.
  • Procedures should be performed in advanced medical centers equipped to handle emergencies.
Abstract

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