Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1985; 33(6): 341-343
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1014163
Case Report

© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Esophago-pericardial Fistula - A Case Report and Review of the Literature

M. P. Konttinen, P. P. Pitkäranta, L. O. Heikkinen, M. T. Talja, K. V. Ala-Kulju
  • Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, and Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
Further Information

Publication History

1985

Publication Date:
19 March 2008 (online)

Summary

A case of esophago-pericardial fistula is described which was treated successfully by pericardial drainage and closure of the fistula 12 days after Perforation. The condition is rare and often fatal. In 29 reported cases there were only 5 survivors. On the basis of our observation and a review of the literature it is concluded that the first Step in the treatment should be pericardial drainage and antibiotic coverage, followed by elective operative closure of the fistula.