Tracheoesophageal Fistula after Blunt Chest Trauma: Successful Diagnosis by Computed Tomography

A case of tracheoesophageal fistula after blunt trauma is reported. A 27-year-old man who suffered from an automobile traffic accident complained of strong choking after drinking water. Computed tomography demonstrated a defect between the esophagus and the trachea just above the carina. Acquired tracheoesophageal fistula was suspected and promptly confirmed by contrast esophagogram. The defects of the trachea and esophagus was repaired by primary suture and buttressed using a pedicled intercostal flap. The postoperative course was uneventful.

Key words:

Tracheoesophageal fistula - Blunt trauma - Computed tomography

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Received for Publication: June 1, 1999