The diagnostic and therapeutic role of imaging in postoperative complications of esophageal surgery

Abstract

Esophageal surgeries are frequently employed in the management of gastrointestinal reflux disease and esophageal carcinoma. Imaging, in the form of computed tomography and fluoroscopy, is commonly utilized to evaluate for postoperative complications such as anastomotic leaks, abscess formation, pneumothorax, and pleural effusion. An understanding of both esophageal anatomy and the most commonly performed surgical techniques facilitates the diagnosis of these complications and governs their potential computed tomography-guided treatment.