[Instrumental esophageal perforations--diagnosis and treatment (author's transl)]

In the last 6 years 16 patients with an iatrogenic esophageal lesion have been treated. Most frequently this lesion results from esophagoscopies and bouginages. Laying of a gastric tube, extraction of a foreign body or dilatation of a cardiospasm are rare reasons for a lesion. Only three patients suffered from cancer. The early diagnosis and immediately operation is decisive for the therapy's success. The operation with primary closure of the defect and drainage should be aspired. After this the best results are levelled. If the surgical operation is carried on after the 24-hours limit, the operation itself is of minor importance as the lethality of these patients is very high and does not depend on the kind of therapy.