[Radiotherapy for esophageal carcinoma with broncho-esophageal fistula]

We studied treatment methods after fistula formation in 14 esophageal carcinoma patients with broncho-esophageal fistulae. Among 12 patients, 8 had no treatment, one was operated and 3 underwent radiotherapy using conventional fractionation. In only one case was there temporary closure of the fistula; none of the patients survived for more than 1 year. The other 2 patients were treated by the long protracted method (1.5 Gy/day). Long-term closure of the fistula was seen. These patients received additional low-dose rate teletherapy (1 Gy/hour, 7 Gy/day) and both survived for over 1 year.