Problems of dissolution after long-term placement of a Celestin oesophageal tube

The reported cases of Latex material dissolution after longterm placement of Celestin oesophageal tubes, and the ensuing complications are discussed. Also discussed is a case of ours with adenocarcinoma of the distal oesophagus in which dissolution of the Celestin tube was found 8 months after placement. What is needed is a stable substance to replace Latex. So far, no problems have been reported with the Latex-Silicone Haering tube.