Acquired tracheoesophageal fistula.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Foreign body ingestion is a common pediatric emergency.
• Esophageal foreign bodies can lead to serious complications if not promptly diagnosed and managed.

Observation:

• A 5-year-old child presented with symptoms of an acquired tracheoesophageal fistula.
• A large plastic doll ear was found lodged in the esophagus, undetected for weeks.
• The fistula developed secondary to the prolonged presence of the foreign body.

Findings:

• Endoscopic removal of the esophageal foreign body was successful.
• Intravenous nutrition and infection control were crucial components of management.
• Surgical division and repair of the tracheoesophageal fistula were performed.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for delayed diagnosis of esophageal foreign bodies.
• Early recognition and intervention are critical to prevent severe complications like tracheoesophageal fistula.
• Multidisciplinary management involving surgery and critical care is essential for favorable outcomes.