Related Experiment Videos
Instrumental perforation of the esophagus
Abstract:
Instrumental perforation of the esophagus occurred in a 55-year-old man who underwent esophagoscopy. The complication occurred when the esophagoscope broke during the procedure to remove a bolus of food. After the scope was withdrawn and examined, a defect was seen in its side where a weld on the light carrier had broken, causing a ribbon of mucosa and muscularis to be impinged in this defect. The esophagus was reexamined with a new esophagoscope. A nasogastric tube was passed into the stomach, and antibiotics were administered. Although the dangers of endoscopy are well documented and are decreasing, complications occur in up to 1% of the cases. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment, regardless of the site of perforation, continue to be the critical factors in reduction of the morbidity and mortality of this iatrogenic injury.
Insights
An esophagoscopy complication occurred when an endoscope broke, causing an esophageal perforation. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality from this iatrogenic injury.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Esophagoscopy is a common procedure for diagnosing and treating esophageal conditions.
- While generally safe, instrumental perforation remains a potential complication.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old male developed an esophageal perforation during esophagoscopy for food bolus removal.
- The perforation resulted from the esophagoscope breaking due to a faulty weld on the light carrier.
Findings:
- The broken esophagoscope impinged esophageal tissue, causing a defect.
- Immediate reexamination, nasogastric tube placement, and antibiotics were administered.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of equipment integrity in endoscopic procedures.
- Early detection and prompt management are critical for improving outcomes in iatrogenic esophageal injuries.