Endoscopic Repair of Tracheoesophageal Fistula with Vascular Embolization Plug

TL;DR

This paper presents a successful case of treating a tracheoesophageal fistula using an endoscopic vascular plug.

Contribution

A novel endoscopic treatment approach using a vascular embolization plug for tracheoesophageal fistulas is demonstrated.

Findings

A post-intubation tracheoesophageal fistula was successfully repaired using an endoscopic vascular plug.

The procedure avoided the need for surgery in a high-risk patient.

Abstract

Aerodigestive fistulas represent a major challenge in clinical practice. This problem is burdened with severe morbidity and mortality, despite recent advantages in endoscopic endoluminal repair techniques. Special problems are fistulas localized higher, engaging the proximal esophagus and trachea, which in adults most often result from post-intubation injury. Surgery is generally demanding and reserved for the patients in whom other, less invasive options fail. Hereby, we present a case of post-intubation tracheoesophageal fistula, successfully treated with endoscopic vascular plug placement.

Figures