Esophageal rupture secondary to blunt trauma in a child.

ABSTRACT

Oesophageal perforation is the most life threatening of all digestive perforations. External blunt trauma is a rare cause of oesophageal perforation. An 8-years old boy sustained blunt trauma to the chest and abdomen, which led to splenic tear and oesophageal rupture. The splenic tear was managed conservatively. The oesophageal rupture was initially managed by intercostal tube drainage and subsequently by surgical repair. Post-operatively, a suture line leak was managed conservatively. Despite a small-contained leak, he is now on full oral feeds. Esophageal perforation is rare after blunt trauma and often poses difficult management issues. To our knowledge this is also the youngest patient with Oesophageal rupture due to blunt trauma reported.