Tracheoesophageal Fistula Due to Endotracheal Intubation; a case Report of Requiring Tracheal Reconstruction / 대한흉부외과학회지

ABSTRACT

The common cause of tracheoesophageal fistula(T-E fistula) after tracheal intubation is ulceration and necrosis of the posterior wall of trachea by compression pressure generated by cuff. We experienced a young woman sustaining a T-E fistula which was found on the 12th day of intubation for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Because spontaneous closure of the fistula is far uncommon, operative closure should be aimed for and should be done as soon as diagnosis is conformed. We delayed operative closure because of poor general condition of the patient. In spite of delayed reconstruction, the tracheal reconstruction itself was successful, but the patient died of peritonitis induced sepsis on the postoperative 41th day.