Closure of a Bronchoesophageal Fistula After Lung Transplantation With an Amplatzer Occluder Device

Lung transplantation is associated with a higher morbidity and mortality compared with transplantation of other solid organs, which is related, in part, to the occurrence of airway complications. A bronchoesophageal fistula associated with dehiscence of the right bronchial anastomosis developed in a 59-year-old man after bilateral lung transplantation. Multiple endoscopic and bronchoscopic stent procedures failed to close the fistula. Five months after the lung transplant, the fistula was successfully closed with an Amplatzer ADO septal occluder device. One year later, the fistula was still closed, but because of the development of multiple gastrointestinal complications, the patient received palliative care.