Closure of an iatrogenic tracheo-esophageal fistula with bronchoscopic gluing in a mechanically ventilated adult patient

Ann Thorac Surg. 2004 Jan;77(1):328-9. doi: 10.1016/s0003-4975(03)01379-1.

Abstract

Management of acquired nonmalignant tracheo-esophageal fistula (TEF) in mechanically ventilated patients is controversial. Surgical correction is often contraindicated because the high operative risk and spontaneous closure is unlikely due to the positive pressure ventilation. We present a case of successful closure of an iatrogenic TEF in a mechanically ventilated patient with bronchoscopic application of fibrin glue. The technique may be proposed in high-risk patients as either an alternative to surgery or as a first-line attempt before surgical correction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Bronchoscopy*
  • Fibrin Tissue Adhesive*
  • Humans
  • Intubation, Intratracheal / adverse effects*
  • Respiration, Artificial*
  • Tissue Adhesives*
  • Tracheoesophageal Fistula / etiology
  • Tracheoesophageal Fistula / therapy*

Substances

  • Fibrin Tissue Adhesive
  • Tissue Adhesives