Bronchial Embolization with an Endobronchial Watanabe Spigot for Broncho-Gastric Tube Fistula

Abstract

Anastomotic failure of a gastric tube inserted for reconstruction following esophagectomy, which is relatively rare, causes pleural infection and persistent pleural irritation, leading to communication with the pulmonary parenchyma. Although several interventions have been reported to treat such broncho-gastric tube fistulas, refractory cases remain. We herein report the successful treatment by endo-scopic bronchial occlusion with an endobronchial Watanabe spigot in 2 patients who suffered from the above complication..