[Iatrogenic esophageal perforation]

Abstract

A total of 213 patients with a foreign body in the oesophagus was treated in our unit between 1980-1990. Most of the foreign bodies were impacted in the cervical oesophagus. Oesophagoscopy were carried out under general anaesthesia in all cases. iatrogenic perforation of oesophagus was encountered in ten cases. Our results suggest that most instrumental perforation of the esophagus should be managed surgically. Drainage and closure of cervical perforations yields good results. Nonoperative management night be entertained in minimally symptomatic patients harboring a late, locally contained perforation without signs of ongoing sepsis.