Cervical esophageal perforation diagnosed by endoscopy in a premature infant: review of recent literature

Abstract

A case of cervical esophageal perforation in a premature infant by an orogastric polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tube is reported. Perforation appeared as an esophageal atresia, suspected because of the inability to aspirate gastric secretions. Initially, atresia was confirmed by an esophagogram, but endoscopy revealed a "double esophagus" with a normally located and developed esophagus and a blind mediastinal fistula starting at the opposite side of the glottis. The "double esophagus" was confirmed by an esophagogram, followed by a contrast study in the pharynx. Esophageal perforation in the neonate is an iatrogenic disease that may mimic esophageal atresia. We recommend endoscopy instead of contrast studies for suspected esophageal atresia.