Abstract |
Aspiration via a congenital broncho- esophageal fistula in an adult thoracotomy patient has not been previously reported. Repeated aspiration and subsequent respiratory failure if the fistula is not recognized could be life-threatening in these postoperative patients. We describe one such critical case, in which a broncho- esophageal fistula was discovered weeks after aspiration and the onset of respiratory failure after left lower lobectomy. This unusual case suggests that repeated localized pulmonary infections can indicate a broncho- esophageal fistula and that further investigations should be performed, including detailed history.
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Authors | Xue-Fei Hu, Chang Chen, Liang Duan, Yi Zhang, Wen Gao |
Journal | Respiratory care
(Respir Care)
Vol. 56
Issue 8
Pg. 1195-7
(Aug 2011)
ISSN: 0020-1324 [Print] United States |
PMID | 21496371
(Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
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Topics |
- Aged
- Bronchial Fistula
(complications, congenital)
- Bronchiectasis
(surgery)
- Bronchoscopy
- Diagnosis, Differential
- Esophageal Fistula
(complications, congenital)
- Follow-Up Studies
- Humans
- Male
- Pneumonectomy
- Postoperative Complications
- Respiratory Insufficiency
(diagnosis, etiology)
- Tomography, X-Ray Computed
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