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Updated: Jun 11, 2025

Cooling or Warming the Esophagus to Reduce Esophageal Injury During Left Atrial Ablation in the Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: March 15, 2020
Airway Esophageal Fistula
Kelsey E Koch1, Andrew P Dhanasopon1, Gavitt A Woodard1
1Division of Thoracic Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, 330 Cedar Street, BB205, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
Abstract:
Acquired tracheoesophageal fistulas (TEFs) are rare pathologic connections between the trachea and esophagus. Esophageal and tracheal stenting have been increasingly and safely utilized in management of TEFs, but surgical repair remains the most definitive treatment. Surgical approach to treating TEFs depends on its location, but principles include division and closure of the fistula tracts and insertion of a muscle flap in between the repairs to buttress and prevent recurrence. Advances in diagnostic tools, endoscopic and surgical methods, and intensive care have led to significantly improved outcomes in the management of acquired TEFs.
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