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Updated: Jul 16, 2025

An Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy Designed to Minimize Anastomotic Complications and Optimize Conduit Function
Published on: April 17, 2020
Diagnosis and Management of a Massive Eight-Centimeter Acquired Tracheoesophageal Fistula
Andrew Engel-Rodriguez1, Marilee Tiru-Vega1, Jesus Merced-Roman1
1Internal Medicine, Veterans Affairs (VA) Caribbean Healthcare Systems, San Juan, PRI.
Abstract:
Here, we present the case of a 61-year-old veteran Hispanic male with recurrent aspiration pneumonitis, aerophagia, tympanic abdominal bloating, and a positive Ono's sign; symptoms present were secondary to diagnosed tracheoesophageal fistulas (TEFs). TEFs are abnormal connections between the esophagus and the trachea. In adult cases, several risk factors have been identified for acquired cases, which include infection, trauma, and cancer. Diagnosis of TEF can be challenging and, in most cases, requires high suspicion. Currently, there are no established guidelines for diagnosing and managing TEF. Clinical assessment and various imaging techniques are essential in the diagnostic process. This article will discuss the etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches, and management options for acquired TEFs.
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