Aortoesophageal fistula: A case report

Abstract

Patients with impacted foreign bodies in the upper aerodigestive tract present commonly to ENT clinics. This case report highlights two important issues in the management of these patients. First, if the evidence of esophageal perforation is strong and contrast swallow is negative, the physician must consider further imaging, such as contrast computed tomography. Second, ENT physicians must beware of the complications of esophageal trauma, including major vascular injury and aortoesophageal fistula, in patients with retained sharp foreign bodies in the mid-esophagus. © 2009, Vendome Group, LLC. All rights reserved.