[Spontaneous esophageal rupture after gastrointestinal examination using barium].

Abstract

We experienced a case of spontaneous rupture of the esophagus after gastrointestinal examination using barium. A 48-year-old male experienced severe chest pain after vomiting following gastrointestinal examination. Chest X-ray revealed a right pneumothorax and pleural effusion by barium. We diagnosed spontaneous rupture of the esophagus and performed right thoracotomy 6 hours after onset of symptoms. At 10 cm above the diaphragm, there was a vertical perforation 3 cm in length. Following saline lavage, the ruptured esophageal wall was directly closed by the layer to layer method. The post operative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged 3 weeks after surgery. Cases of spontaneous rupture of the esophagus into the right thoracic cavity induced by gastrointestinal examination are extremely rare.

• Authors: R Masuda, I Tanaka, Y Furuhata, M Inoue, T Isoyama
• Journal: The Japanese journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery : official publication of the Japanese Association for Thoracic Surgery = Nihon Kyobu Geka Gakkai zasshi (Jpn J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg) Vol. 46 Issue 11 Pg. 1182-5 (Nov 1998) ISSN: 1344-4964 [Print] Japan
• PMID: 9884574 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Contrast Media
• Barium Sulfate

Topics

• Barium Sulfate (adverse effects)
• Contrast Media (adverse effects)
• Digestive System (diagnostic imaging)
• Esophageal Diseases (etiology, surgery)
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Radiography
• Rupture, Spontaneous
• Suture Techniques
• Treatment Outcome