Iatrogenic esophageal perforation in children

Decortication with uniport video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for empyema due to postoperative esophageal leakage: a report of two pediatric cases

BACKGROUND

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is considered useful for the treatment of parapneumonic empyema in children. However, thoracoscopic management of empyema due to esophageal leakage as an operative complication has not been well described in the literature.

CASE PRESENTATION

We successfully decorticated severe empyema using uniport VATS in 2 children (a 2-year-old boy who suffered esophageal perforation after laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery, and a 7-month-old girl who had anastomotic leakage after thoracoscopic repair of esophageal atresia). In these patients, we noticed that pleural effusion rapidly progressed to empyema and caused respiratory insufficiency due to wide-range coverage by fibrotic pleural rind that was successfully decorticated under video-assisted vision from a mini-thoracotomy, followed by spontaneous healing of the leakage.

CONCLUSIONS

We did not attempt to closely approach or try to repair the esophageal leakage. We believe that this is an important tip for these situations.

Neonatal Gastrointestinal Perforations: A 4-year Experience in a Single Centre

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal perforation (GIP) during the neonatal period is still a significant problem despite improved neonatal care. The study aimed to report on incidence, management, morbidity and mortality.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Records of neonates with GIPs between October 2018 and November 2022 were retrospectively analysed.

RESULTS

There were 47 patients, 22 (46.8%) males and 25 (53.2%) females. The incidence of neonatal GIP was 0.39% amongst all newborns treated in the neonatal intensive care unit. The mean gestational age was 30.4 ± 4.5 (23-38) weeks, and the mean birth weight was 1493.08 ± 753 (580-2940) g. Of 47 neonates, 5 (10.6%) were full term and 42 (89.4%) were preterm. The mean age of surgery was 12.25 ± 9.89 (0-41) days. A laparotomy was performed in 43 (91.4%) of 47 neonates, while seven of the patients underwent surgical intervention after decompression by percutaneous drainage. Four patients were managed with peritoneal drainage alone due to poor general condition. The pathologies unrelated to necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) were the most common cause of GIPs (55.3%) and included spontaneous intestinal perforation (n = 18), stomach perforation (n = 4), segmental volvulus (n = 2), acute mesenteric ischaemia (n = 1) and meconium peritonitis (n = 1). Overall survival was 55.4%.

CONCLUSION

GIPs are one of the most significant causes of mortality in newborns. The most common cause of perforations is non-NEC entities and can be seen in the entire intestinal system from the stomach to the colon. Surgical exploration is still the primary management model.

Clinical Features of iatrogenic Pharyngo-esophageal perforation in very low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

Iatrogenic pharyngoesophageal perforation (IPEP) is one of the complications of gastric tube insertion and it tends to occur more frequently in premature infants. Although the frequency is significantly low, attention should be paid as it can lead to serious outcomes with high mortality. This study will help raise awareness with respect to early diagnosis, management, and prevention.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of all very low birth weight infants diagnosed with IPEP between 1993 and 2022.

RESULTS

A total of 6 patients (0.27% of very low birth weight infants) with the diagnosis of IPEP were included. The median gestational age was 27 + 1 weeks (range 23+5-28 + 6 weeks), and the median birth weight was 823 g (range 630-1232 g). Symptoms included difficulty with gastric tube insertion, bloody secretions in the oral cavity, and increased oral secretions. X-rays revealed aberrant running of the gastric tube in all patients. In three cases, contrast studies demonstrated contrasted mediastinum tapering like a bead. Laryngoscope was used to view the perforation sites but this was not useful in the smallest patient. All patients were treated conservatively with antibiotics and survived.

CONCLUSIONS

When inserting a gastric tube for premature infants, it is critical to remember that these infants are at risk of IPEP. In addition to a frontal X-ray, a lateral X-ray and contrast study may be useful for early diagnosis.

Non-operative management of iatrogenic esophageal perforation in a 6-year-old child

BACKGROUND

Esophageal perforations are rare, the most common encountered esophageal perforation is iatrogenic in origin. It can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. Medical treatment has been recommended primarily in hemodynamically stable children. Drainage of intrathoracic or periesophageal fluid formation should be reserved to patients with hemodynamic instability. Surgical intervention may seldomly be required, depending on the localization and size of the defect.

CASE REPORT

A 6-year-old male patient was referred to our clinic due to an esophageal perforation whilst removing the foreign body from upper esophagus under direct vision of a rigid esophagoscope. A radiologic appearance similar to esophageal duplication was detected along the esophagus in the esophagogram. A secondary esophagoscopy was carried out by our clinic, laceration at the esophagopharyngeal junction and dissection along the esophagus were observed and the foreign body was propelled into the stomach. The patient, whose clinical condition was stable, was managed medically without the need for a surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Esophageal perforation is rare, yet perilous if not handled properly. We do not encounter this clinical entity frequently. Despite its rarity it can arise either iatrogenically or while managing a previous complication such as a simple nasogastric tube insertion in an infant or during an endoscopy for an esophageal foreign body. Its management is challenging, and we believe that non-operative treatment is still an important option in childhood esophageal perforations.

Esophagogastric Fistula: The Consequence of High-Powered Magnets Ingestion

A 17-month-old female had an unwitnessed ingestion of 26 high-powered magnets, resulting in the creation of an esophagogastric fistula via the left crus of the diaphragm. This case highlights a rare injury to the stomach and esophagus caused by high-powered magnets requiring surgical intervention. Furthermore, this case report illustrates the risks that high-powered magnets pose to young children. Additionally, this case highlights the importance of maintaining a high level of suspicion for ingestion in young patients along with a multidisciplinary team to manage sequelae of injury.

Iatrogenic Esophageal Perforation in Premature Infants: A Multicenter Retrospective Study from Poland

Greater awareness of possible iatrogenic esophageal perforation (EP) is needed. Though rare, EP is a legitimate health risk as it may lead to long-term morbidities. This study presents and discusses iatrogenic EP in a subset of preterm infants. Using radiographic images, we study and describe the consequences of the orogastric/nasogastric tube position (in radiographic images). We analyze the possible influence of histological chorioamnionitis on the development of esophageal perforation. This retrospective study examines the hospital records of 1149 preterm infants, 2009-2016, with very low birth weight (VLBW) and iatrogenic EP, comparing mortalities and morbidities between the two groups of preterm infants who had birth weights (BWs) of less than 750 g and were less than 27 weeks gestation age at birth: one group with iatrogenic esophageal perforation (EP group) and one group without perforation (non-EP group-the control group). Histopathological chorioamnionitis of the placenta showed no statistically significant differences between the groups. The only statistically significant difference was in the air leaks (p = 0.01). Three types of nasogastric tube (NGT) X-ray location were identified, depending on the place of the perforation: (1) high position below the carina mimicking esophageal atresia; (2) low, intra-abdominal; (3) NGT right pleura-directed. We also highlight the particular symptoms that may be indicative of EP due to a displacement of the nasogastric tube.

Esophageal Perforation of a Neonate Following Placement of an Oral Gastric Tube

We present a case of neonatal esophageal perforation following routine oral gastric (OG) tube placement in the neonatal intensive care unit. This is a rare complication primarily affecting premature infants and can have significant morbidity and mortality. This case demonstrates the initial radiographic presentation of esophageal perforation and the subsequent imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Clinical management of this condition in the neonatal patient is also discussed. A unique highlight of this case is the difference in radiographic presentation on the initial study as compared to the later study.

Pediatric anesthesia and achalasia: 10 years' experience in peroral endoscopy myotomy management

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic treatment for achalasia (POEM) is a recently introduced technique that incorporates the concepts of natural orifice transluminal surgery. Although pediatric achalasia is rare, POEM has been episodically used in children since 2012. Despite this procedure entails many implications for airway management and mechanical ventilation, evidences about anesthesiologic management are very poor. We conducted this retrospective study to pay attention on the clinical challenge for pediatric anesthesiologists. We put special emphasis on the risk in intubation maneuvers and in ventilation settings.

RESULTS

We retrieved data on children 18 years old and younger who underwent POEM in a single tertiary referral endoscopic center between 2012 and 2021. Demographics, clinical history, fasting status, anesthesia induction, airway management, anesthesia maintenance, timing of anesthesia and procedure, PONV, and pain treatment and adverse events were retrieved from the original database. Thirty-one patients (3-18 years) undergoing POEM for achalasia were analyzed. In 30 of the 31 patients, rapid sequence induction was performed. All patients manifested consequences of endoscopic CO₂ insufflation and most of them required a new ventilator approach. No life-threatening adverse events have been detected.

CONCLUSIONS

POEM procedure seems to be characterized by a low-risk profile, but specials precaution must be taken. The inhalation risk is actually due to the high rate of full esophagus patients, even if the Rapid Sequence Induction was effective in preventing ab ingestis pneumonia. Mechanical ventilation may be difficult during the tunnelization step. Future prospective trials will be necessary to individuate the better choices in such a special setting.

Iatrogenic esophageal perforation caused by endoscopic dilatation of caustic stricture: Current management and possibility of esophageal salvage

BACKGROUND

Iatrogenic esophageal perforation (EP) is an undesirable complication of endoscopic dilatation of caustic esophageal stricture. We reported our current management protocol with possibility of continuing the dilatation program.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From January 2009 to January 2020 medical records were reviewed for patients presented with iatrogenic EP. Management according to each case condition was reported.

RESULTS

24 patients were enrolled, aged from 1.5 to 6 years old. Perforation was cervical in one case, abdominal in two cases, and thoracic in 21 cases. Immediate surgical repair was performed in the abdominal cases. Conservative management was chosen in 22 cases; two cases didn't respond and underwent esophageal diversion, and one of them died owing to severe sepsis. Three patients refused another trial of dilatation. Two cases failed to be redilated. 17 patients continued a dilatation program. Time passed between perforation and redilatation ranged from 35 days to 7 months. 15 patients were cured completely from dysphagia, one patient had marked improvement of his dysphagia, and one case with a resistant stricture was referred for esophageal replacement.

CONCLUSION

Preserving the native esophagus is possible after iatrogenic EP of caustic esophageal stricture. A conservative approach should be attempted with caution not to endanger patient's life. Level IV of evidence.

Experience on Using Thoracoscope in Diagnosis and Treatment of Neonatal Idiopathic Esophageal Perforation

Idiopathic esophageal perforation in the neonatal is a rare entity. The presentation is usually with mediastinal inflammation, icherrhemia, and infectious shock, all of which are potentially life-threatening. We present a case with an unusual right side pneumothorax chest and esophagography suggesting an esophageal perforation. With thoracoscope, the esophageal perforation was sutured. The child recovered well from the procedure.

Conservative treatment of iatrogenic perforations caused by gastric tubes in extremely low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

Iatrogenic gastrointestinal perforations are rare, but life-threatening events in preterm infants.

AIM

Aim of the study was to report on incidence, management, morbidity, and mortality.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective analysis performed at a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit in Vienna, Austria.

SUBJECTS

Extremely low birth weight infants (ELBW, birth weight < 1000 g) with perforations of the upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT) caused by gastric tubes were included.

OUTCOME MEASURES

All ELBW infants born within the 6-year study period were identified and their discharge summaries or notes were screened for esophageal and gastric perforations. Data on incidence, management of GIT perforations, morbidity, and mortality were obtained.

RESULTS

During a 6-year study period 646 ELBW infants were analyzed. Incidence of perforations was 1.1% (n = 7/646). Median gestational age was 23 + 3 (range: 23 + 0-24 + 5). Perforations occurred on the third day of life (=median, range: day 2-14) and were primarily managed conservatively. Enteral feeding was stopped for 6 days (range: 4-13 days), antibiotic therapy administered for 16 days (range: 8-22 days). In one infant, gastrorrhaphy was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Conservative treatment of upper GIT perforations led to spontaneous recovery without major complications in 85.7%.

Iatrogenic mediastinitis in bronchiolitis: Importance of avoiding pharyngeal aspiration

An 11-month-old infant was hospitalized for his first episode of severe bronchiolitis, with pneumomediastinum on the chest x-ray performed in the emergency room before hospitalization. After a few days, the occurrence of a feverish torticollis motivated a CT scan, revealing mediastinitis. An iatrogenic perforation was objectified in the posterior wall of the esophagus, probably caused by nasopharyngeal aspiration. This exceptional case has never been reported before, except in premature infants. This encouraged us to report this case to change systematic aspiration practices and prefer nasal suctioning in healthy infants with bronchiolitis presenting to the emergency department.

Boerhaave’s syndrome: case report and review

Well-timed diagnostics of a spontaneous nontraumatic rupture of esophagus or Boerhaave’s syndrome, presents great difficulties because of his rarity and a variety of clinical implications. Esophagus ruptures may feign various organs pathology [2] that most often demands differential diagnostics with a stomach ulcer perforation, acute myocardial infarction, pulmonary artery embolism, aortic dissection and pancreatitis [16, 17]. The treatment can include conservative and surgical tools, but still accompanied by high mortality (up to 35%) [7]; results largely defined by the time between the moment of a rupture and start of the treatment. In addition to the review, described the experience of successful treatment of a patient with Boerhaave’s syndrome in the light of the generalized today data of world medical literature on this problem.

Esophageal perforation in children: etiology and management, with special reference to endoscopic esophageal perforation

Perforation of the esophagus is an uncommon problem with significant morbidity and mortality. In children undergoing endoscopy, the risk of perforation is higher when interventional endoscopy is performed. The clinical features depend upon the site of esophageal perforation. Opinions vary regarding the optimal treatment protocol, and the role of conservative management in this context is not well established. Esophageal perforation that occurs as a consequence of endoscopy in children requires careful evaluation and management, as outlined in this article.

Iatrogenic Intramural Dissection of the Esophagus after Insertion of a Laryngeal Mask Airway

In pediatric patients, a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) is usually used during minor surgeries that require general anesthesia. No esophageal injury has been reported after insertion of an LMA. We report a case of an esophageal injury with intramural dissection after an i-gel^® (size, 1.5; Intersurgical Ltd.) insertion in a pediatric patient. A 2-month-old male infant was hospitalized for left inguinal herniorrhaphy. After induction of anesthesia, a trained resident tried to insert an i-gel^® . However, it was only successful after three attempts. Dysphagia was sustained until postoperative day 10, and the pediatrician observed duplication of the esophagus on gastroendoscopy. However, a whitish mucosal lesion, which looked like a scar, was observed, and previous lesions suggestive of esophageal duplication were almost healed on postdischarge day 11. His condition was diagnosed as dysphagia and esophagitis due to an esophageal laceration, not esophageal duplication. He was scheduled for symptomatic treatment with a proton pump inhibitor. In conclusion, although an esophageal injury or perforation in pediatric patients is rare, an LMA insertion or a procedure such as aspiration or nasogastric tube insertion should be performed gently to avoid a possible injury to the esophagus in pediatric patients.

Pediatric esophagopleural fistula: Two case reports and a literature review

Esophagopleural fistula (EPF) is rarely reported in children with a high misdiagnosis rate. This study aimed to reveal the clinical manifestations and managements of EPF in children.Two pediatric cases of EPF in our hospital were reported. A bibliographic search was performed on the PubMed, WANFANG, and CNKI databases for EPF-related reports published between January 1980 and May 2016. The pathogeny, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatments, and prognosis of EPF patients were collected and discussed.Based on conservative treatments, 1 pediatric EPF case induced by cervical trauma was cured by longitudinal septum incision-mediated drainage. The other pediatric EPF induced by endoscopic balloon dilation was cured by dual stent implantation. A total of 38 studies of 197 EPF patients (191 adults and 6 children) were reviewed. Latrogenic factor, esophageal foreign body, and infection are considered the main causes of EPF in children. Unilateral pleural effusion accompanied by food residue was the main manifestations of EPF. Chest computed tomography (CT) and contrast esophagography were usually used in the diagnosis of EPF with high accuracy. Surgical treatment in adults with EPF exhibited a significantly higher cure rate and lower mortality rate than conservative treatment (P < .01).Pleural effusion with food residue is a specific finding in EPF. Chest CT exhibited high sensitivity for the diagnosis of EPF. Conservative treatment may be preferable for pediatric patients with EPF.

Neonatal and pediatric esophageal perforation

Esophageal perforation (EP) is a rare complication that is often iatrogenic in origin. In contrast with adult patients in whom surgical closure of the defect is preferred, nonoperative treatment has become a common therapeutic approach for EP in neonates and children. Principles of management pediatric EP includes rapid diagnosis, appropriate hemodynamic monitoring and support, antibiotic therapy, total parenteral nutrition, control of extraluminal contamination, and restoration of luminal integrity either through time or operative approaches.

Postsurgical Perforation of the Esophagus Can Be Treated Using a Fully Covered Stent in Children

OBJECTIVES

Surgery and conservative treatment of esophageal or gastric perforations are both often associated with poor results and carry a high morbidity and mortality rate. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of using fully covered self-expending metallic stents (SEMS) in children with upper digestive leaks.

METHODS

This retrospective study reviewed all children with esophageal or gastric perforation who were treated with placement of an SEMS from January 2011 to January 2015. Closure of the perforation was the primary outcome measured. Secondary outcomes were the duration of antibiotic therapy and parenteral nutrition, adverse events, and length of hospitalization.

RESULTS

A total of 19 SEMS were placed in 10 patients (median age: 5.5 years; 5 girls) treated for postanastomotic leaks of esophageal atresia (n = 3), esophagogastroplasty (n = 4), resection of esophageal duplication (n = 1) or perforation during Toupet surgical dismantling (n = 1), and gastric rupture after Nissen surgery (n = 1). The perforation closed in 9 out of 10 patients in a mean of 36 days after stenting (range: 13-158 days). All patients received antibiotic therapy for an average of 17.5 days (3-109 days) and parenteral nutrition for 49 days (17-266 days). During a median follow-up of 8.9 months, 4 out of 9 sealed perforations developed stenosis, which was efficiently treated by endoscopic dilations in 2 patients and surgical redo in 2 patients with dilation-resistant stenosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Covered stents appear to be beneficial in closing esophageal perforations in children and can avoid the high morbidity of a surgical repair. Stenosis, however, occurred frequently after larger leakages.

Complications in pediatric enteral and vascular access

Obtaining reliable enteral and vascular access constitutes a significant fraction of a pediatric surgeon׳s job. Multiple approaches are available. Given the complicated nature of this patient population multiple complications can also occur. This article discusses the various techniques and potential complications associated with short- and long-term enteral and vascular access.

Nonoperative management of esophageal perforations in the newborn

BACKGROUND

Esophageal perforation in neonates occurs most often in cases of extreme prematurity and is commonly due to iatrogenic causes. Treatment over recent decades has become more conservative. The purpose of this study was to review cases of esophageal perforation in neonates and to describe the presentation, management, and outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed for patients with International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision code for esophageal perforation treated at our institution between the years 2009 and 2015. Data collected included demographic information, etiology of perforation (specifically focusing on cases secondary to orogastric tube placement), treatment course, time to resumption of enteral feeds, length of antibiotic use, time to subsequent radiographic resolution, and mortality.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients met study criteria. The average post-conceptual age at time of diagnosis was 26.5 ± 2.3 wk. All 25 patients were managed nonoperatively with bowel rest, parenteral nutrition, and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Enteral feeds were resumed after a median of 8 d (interquartile range [IQR]: 7-11), the median antibiotic duration was 7 d (IQR: 7-10), and the median time to follow-up esophagram was 7 d (IQR: 7-10). Overall, 24 of 25 patients (96%) demonstrated radiological resolution of perforation on initial follow-up esophagram. Four patients died during the study period, but no deaths were related to the diagnosis of esophageal perforation.

CONCLUSIONS

In this largest reported sample of neonates treated for esophageal perforation, nonoperative management with bowel rest, parenteral nutrition, and antibiotics was successful.

Cadaveric Analysis of Posterior Pharyngoesophageal Wall Thickness: Implications for Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery

STUDY DESIGN

A cadaveric study.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate possible variations of posterior pharyngoesophageal (PE) wall thickness in the horizontal plane and their implications for anterior spine surgery.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Lower cervical levels (C5-7) are most commonly involved in cases of PE injury, and PE wall thickness could be one of the proposed reasons for the high incidence of PE injuries at these levels. The purpose of this study was to document thickness variations of the posterior PE wall at different cervical spine levels, because the study could provide valuable anatomical information that could reduce iatrogenic injuries caused by retractors or instrumentation.

METHODS

Thirteen formaldehyde-fixed cadaveric specimens were included in current study. PE specimens were harvested from epiglottis to suprasternal notch within 2 months of formaldehyde fixation and sectioned axially. Four slices corresponding to the superior and inferior borders of thyroid cartilage, cricoid cartilage, and 2  cm below cricoid cartilage were sectioned. Posterior PE wall thickness was measured at three zones as follows: median, lateral, and paramedian. Posterior PE wall thicknesses were measured by a pathologist.

RESULTS

Based on one-way ANOVA, posterior PE wall thickness showed several significantly different variations depending on cervical level and horizontal plane. PE walls were thinnest at the level of cricoid cartilage (P < 0.05). This difference was more pronounced in the median zone, because of thickness variations in the muscular layer (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The posterior PE wall was thinnest in the median zone at the cricoid cartilage level. Variations in muscle layer thickness caused PE wall thickness differences. The smaller wall thickness at the level of the cricoids cartilage and in the midline zone may place it at higher risk of injury, and special care should be taken during dissection, retraction, and instrument placement.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Microbiological analysis of fluids in postsurgical gastroesophageal intrathoracic leaks obtained by endoscopy: a new way to optimize antibiotic therapy

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Postsurgical gastroesophageal intrathoracic leakage is a potentially life-threatening condition that is frequently accompanied by mediastinitis and subsequent sepsis. Aspiration of fluids from intrathoracic leaks during endoscopy for microbiological analysis is rarely performed in clinical routine. The aim was to evaluate the role of routine microbiological analysis of intrathoracic leaks via endoscopy and its impact on antibiotic therapy.

METHODS

This is a prospective, observational single-center study. Seventeen consecutive patients who presented for endoscopic treatment of intrathoracic leaks were included. Concomitantly, fluids from intrathoracic leaks during endoscopic intervention and blood cultures were obtained and a microbiological analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Bacteria and/or fungi were detected by culture of fluid aspirated from intrathoracic leaks in 88% cases, but in none of the blood cultures. In 15 patients, microbial colonization of the leakage was detected despite previous empiric antibiotic therapy; treatment had to be adjusted in all patients according to the observed antibiotic susceptibility profile.

CONCLUSIONS

The microbiological colonization of postsurgical gastroesophageal intrathoracic leaks in patients is frequent. Only the direct microbiological analysis of fluids from intrathoracic leaks, but not of blood cultures, is effective for optimizing an antibiotic therapy in such patients.

Oesophageal perforation in a neonate during transoesophageal echocardiography for cardiac surgery

Oesophageal perforation is a rarely reported complication of transoesophageal echocardiography in infants. This case involves a 3.1-kg neonate with Trisomy 21, atrioventricular septal defect, and hypoplastic aortic arch undergoing aortic arch advancement and pulmonary artery banding. A paediatric transoesophageal echocardiography probe was placed intraoperatively causing a contained false passage from the oesophagus below the cricopharyngeus muscle with extension into the left posterior mediastinum. The perforation healed within 2 weeks without permanent sequelae after conservative medical management.

Neonatal esophageal perforation: nonoperative management

BACKGROUND

Esophageal perforation is a rare complication of enteric instrumentation in neonates. Enteric tube placement in micro-preemies poses a particular hazard to the narrow lumen and thin wall of the developing esophagus. The complication may be difficult to recognize or misdiagnosed as esophageal atresia, and is associated with considerable mortality. Historically, management of this life-threatening iatrogenic disease was operative, but trends have shifted toward nonoperative treatment. Here, we review neonatal esophageal perforation at our own institution for management techniques, risk factors, and outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seven neonatal patients with esophageal perforation were identified and charts reviewed for demographics, comorbidities, etiology of perforation, diagnostic modalities, management decisions, complications, and outcomes.

RESULTS

Mean gestational age was 27.2 ± 4.0 wk, and weight at diagnosis was 892 ± 674 g. All seven patients had esophageal perforation resulting from endotracheal or enterogastric intubation and were managed nonoperatively. Treatment included removal of the offending tube, nil per os, and antibiotics. Five patients required additional interventions: four tube thoracostomies for pneumothoraces and one peritoneal drain for pneumoperitoneum. Three patients died because of sequelae of prematurity (intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, and sepsis). One patient was diagnosed as having esophageal atresia; esophagoscopy before surgical repair established the correct diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Neonates, particularly those under 1500 g, are at substantial risk for iatrogenic esophageal perforation during enterogastric intubation. Nonoperative management may be a safe initial strategy in the neonatal setting, but more aggressive interventions may ultimately be required. Despite recent improvement in early recognition of this injury, misdiagnosis still occurs.

Regenerative Medicine Strategies for Esophageal Repair

Pathologies that involve the structure and/or function of the esophagus can be life-threatening. The esophagus is a complex organ comprising nonredundant tissue that does not have the ability to regenerate. Currently available interventions for esophageal pathology have limited success and are typically associated with significant morbidity. Hence, there is currently an unmet clinical need for effective methods of esophageal repair. The present article presents a review of esophageal disease along with the anatomic and functional consequences of each pathologic process, the shortcomings associated with currently available therapies, and the latest advancements in the field of regenerative medicine with respect to strategies for esophageal repair from benchtop to bedside.

Non operative management of traumatic esophageal perforation leading to esophagocutaneous fistula in pediatric age group: review and case report

Management of delayed presenting esophageal perforations has long been a topic of debate. Most authors consider definitive surgery being the management of choice. Management, however, differs in pediatric patients in consideration with better healing of younger tissues. We extensively review the role of aggressive non-operative management in pediatric esophageal perforations, especially with delayed presentation and exemplify with case of a young boy with esophageal perforation and esophago-cutaneous fistula. We also lay down the protocol to manage such patients based on our institutional recommendations.

The effects of ankaferd blood stopper on the recovery process in an experimental oesophageal perforation model

BACKGROUND

Oesophageal perforation is a life-threatening pathology that is generally treated conservatively; however, surgical procedures are frequently performed. A topical haemostatic agent, Ankaferd Blood Stopper (ABS), also has beneficial wound-healing effects.

AIMS

This study aimed to determine the effects of ABS following experimental oesophageal perforations.

STUDY DESIGN

Animal experiment.

METHODS

The experimental rats were classified into 6 groups (with 7 rats in each group). Pairs of groups (primary repair alone and primary repair + ABS) were terminated in the 1(st), 2(nd), and 3(rd) weeks following injury. The oesophageal perforations, which were 8-10 mm in length, were created using a nasogastric tube. The perforation sites were repaired with a 6-0 polyglactine thread in the primary repair groups. Additionally, ABS was sprayed over the perforation site in the treatment groups. Each oesophagus was evaluated histopathologically.

RESULTS

There were fewer microabscesses and areas of necrosis in the ABS groups compared with the primary repair groups. The histopathological evaluation revealed that the ABS groups had less inflammation and more re-epithelisation compared to the primary repair groups (p=0.002 and p=0.003, respectively). Fibrosis in the ABS groups was moderate in the 2(nd) week and mild in the 3(rd) week. Comparing the groups with respect to the time intervals, only the 1(st) week groups showed a significant difference in terms of re-epithelialisation (p=0.044).

CONCLUSION

Topical ABS application on the repaired experimental oesophageal perforation regions led to positive wound-healing effects compared with the rats that were administered the primary repair alone.

Radiographic confirmation of feeding tube placement: a diagnostic tool identifying gastrointestinal anomalies

Feeding tubes are commonly used in neonatal intensive care units, and their abnormal position seen on radiographs may indicate underlying serious problems. We recently cared for two infants who presented with clinical deterioration. An abnormally placed feeding tube seen on the chest radiograph revealed underlying serious conditions. The first case was an infant 29 weeks of age who presented with right-sided pneumothorax after birth. By history and a right-side-displaced orogastric (OG) tube, iatrogenic esophageal perforation was diagnosed. The second case was a 16-day-old infant who presented with recurrent vomiting. An OG tube extending into a cystic mass at the right cardiophrenic angle resulted in diagnosis of a herniated stomach with organoaxial-type volvulus, which required surgical repair. Both cases recovered uneventfully. As illustrated in these two rare cases, feeding tube position is not only important for feeding practice, but it also has diagnostic implications in newborn infants.

Conservative Management of Iatrogenic Esophageal Perforation During Neonatal Cardiac Surgery

Esophageal perforation is a rare, but life threatening, entity in children. The most common iatrogenic causes include nasogastric tube insertion, stricture dilation, or endotracheal intubation. Recently, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has been increasingly used in pediatric cardiac surgery to assess cardiac function and structural abnormalities. The safety of TEE in children is still controversial and complications such as airway obstruction, hemodynamic compromise, and esophageal injury have been reported. We recently experienced a case of esophageal perforation caused by TEE probe insertion during neonatal cardiac surgery; two weeks of conservative management resulted in complete resolution of the injury.

Esophageal perforation: diagnostic work-up and clinical decision-making in the first 24 hours

Esophageal perforation is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition. Early clinical suspicion and imaging is important for case management to achieve a good outcome. However, recent studies continue to report high morbidity and mortality greater than 20% from esophageal perforation. At least half of the perforations are iatrogenic, mostly related to endoscopic instrumentation used in the upper gastrointestinal tract, while about a third are spontaneous perforations. Surgical treatment remains an important option for many patients, but a non-operative approach, with or without use of an endoscopic stent or placement of internal or external drains, should be considered when the clinical situation allows for a less invasive approach. The rarity of this emergency makes it difficult for a physician to obtain extensive individual clinical experience; it is also challenging to obtain firm scientific evidence that informs patient management and clinical decision-making. Improved attention to non-specific symptoms and signs and early diagnosis based on imaging may translate into better outcomes for this group of patients, many of whom are elderly with significant comorbidity.

Esophageal perforation: diagnostic work-up and clinical decision-making in the first 24 hours

Esophageal perforation is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition. Early clinical suspicion and imaging is important for case management to achieve a good outcome. However, recent studies continue to report high morbidity and mortality greater than 20% from esophageal perforation. At least half of the perforations are iatrogenic, mostly related to endoscopic instrumentation used in the upper gastrointestinal tract, while about a third are spontaneous perforations. Surgical treatment remains an important option for many patients, but a non-operative approach, with or without use of an endoscopic stent or placement of internal or external drains, should be considered when the clinical situation allows for a less invasive approach. The rarity of this emergency makes it difficult for a physician to obtain extensive individual clinical experience; it is also challenging to obtain firm scientific evidence that informs patient management and clinical decision-making. Improved attention to non-specific symptoms and signs and early diagnosis based on imaging may translate into better outcomes for this group of patients, many of whom are elderly with significant comorbidity.

Esophageal perforation in children: a review of one institution's experience

BACKGROUND

The current approach to esophageal perforation treatment in children has shifted towards conservative management. However, the consensus of what constitutes conservative management is unclear, with various therapies and protocols described, including the need for various decompression and drainage procedures. Our institution utilizes conservative management with minimal intervention guided by the patient's clinical course. The purpose of this study is to report our management and add to the growing evidence for conservative management of esophageal perforation in children.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective chart review of all patients with an ICD-9 diagnosis of esophageal perforation from January 1995 to July 2009. Patients with postoperative anastomotic leaks with drains in place were excluded, although patients with anastomotic leaks that were not controlled by drains were included. Data collected included patient demographics, etiology, diagnosis, treatment, complications, and outcome.

RESULTS

Eight patients were identified who met inclusion criteria. Mean age was 28 mo (1 d-10 y), and the average time from causative event to diagnosis was 1.4 d (0-2 d). The etiology for esophageal perforation included esophagoscopy with dilation (n = 4), button battery ingestion (n = 1), coin ingestion (n = 1), nasogastric tube placement (n = 1), and leak after stricture resection (n = 1). All the patients were treated conservatively without primary surgery or thoracic drainage, and the mean time to perforation healing was 10.2 d (1-24 d). The average length of antibiotic therapy was 10 d (0-26 d). Enteral nutrition was utilized in five patients, and total parenteral nutrition (TPN) was utilized in five patients. No patient developed a new-onset esophageal stricture.

CONCLUSION

Conservative management, guided by the patient's clinical course, with antibiotics and nutritional support is a safe and effective treatment for esophageal perforations in children.