Octogenarian with a congenital bronchoesophageal fistula

Bronchoesophageal fistula are commonly caused by a lung or esophageal malignancy eroding into the neighboring structure. Benign forms of bronchoesophageal fistula are less common and may have a congenital nature. Congenital bronchoesophageal fistula usually present in adult life with chronic symptoms of lung suppuration. We present a case of congenital bronchoesophageal fistula in an octogenarian and review the literature on this subject. We also suggest an extrapleural approach to the fistula to lessen the possibility of postoperative empyema.