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Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2002; 50(2): 111-113
DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-26697
Case Report
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Esophageal Necrosis and Perforation of the Left Main Bronchus Following Photodynamic Therapy of Esophageal Carcinoma

J.  W.  Mall, H.  Zuckermann-Becker, C.  Pollmann, I.  Opitz, P.  Rogalla, M.  Walter
  • 1Department of General, Vascular and Thoracic Surgery, Medical Faculty of the Humboldt University, Charité Hospital, Berlin, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

August 12, 2001

Publication Date:
30 April 2002 (online)

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Abstract

Photodynamic therapy is an effective palliative treatment of esophageal cancer. Minor complications associated with this therapy include pleural effusions, fever or esophageal strictures. In addition to this major complications such as respiratory-esophageal fistula and bronchus perforation have been described. We report here our experience with a patient who developed a complete esophageal necrosis and perforation of the left main bronchus following photodynamic therapy. The surgical and intensive care management of the patient is described and the literature discussed.

Key words

Photodynamic therapy - Esophageal cancer therapy - Bronchus perforation

References

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Correspondence

MD Julian W. Mall

Department of General, Vascular and Thoracic Surgery Medical Faculty of the Humboldt University Charité Hospital Campus Mitte

Schumannstr. 20-21

10117 Berlin

Germany

Phone: +49 (30) 450522-013.

Fax: +49 (30) 450522-908

Email: julianmall@hotmail.com