Closure of minor tracheoesophageal fistulae with calcium hydroxlapatite.

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate a novel technique for the closure of a pinhole tracheoesophageal fistula using Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite). METHODS: Two patients underwent closure of a persistent tracheoesophageal fistula with four quadrant injections of Radiesse around the fistulous tract. RESULTS: Both patients had their fistulas successful closed. The first patient died after 3 months due to lung metastasis. The second patient required a further attempt at closure with Radiesse injection and has been without a leak for 18 months at his last follow up appointment. CONCLUSION: We feel this is an acceptable minimally invasive method to close a persistent pinhole tracheoesophageal fistula after failed management with chemical cautery.