Prolonged mechanical ventilation causing tracheoesophageal fistula

ABSTRACT

Tracheo esophageal fistula [TEF] is a congenital or acquired communication between the trachea and esophagus. These fistulae can often lead to fatal complications. Prolonged intubation with high compliance endotracheal tube cuffs used to prevent gas leak and also pulmonary aspiration may cause tracheal damageand lead to tracheoesophageal fistulae