Interventional management of esophagorespiratory fistula

Korean J Radiol. 2010 Mar-Apr;11(2):133-40. doi: 10.3348/kjr.2010.11.2.133. Epub 2010 Feb 22.

Abstract

An esophagorespiratory fistula (ERF) is an often fatal consequence of esophageal or bronchogenic carcinomas. The preferred treatment is placement of esophageal and/or airway stents. Stent placement must be performed as quickly as possible since patients with ERFs are at a high risk for aspiration pneumonia. In this review, choice of stents and stenting area, fistula reopening and its management, and the long-term outcome in the interventional management of malignant ERFs are considered. Lastly, a review of esophagopulmonary fistulas will also be provided.

Keywords: Esophagopleural fistula; Esophagorespiratory fistula; Interventional technique.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bronchial Neoplasms / complications*
  • Esophageal Fistula / etiology
  • Esophageal Fistula / therapy*
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / complications*
  • Esophagus / surgery
  • Humans
  • Palliative Care / methods
  • Quality of Life
  • Respiratory System / surgery
  • Respiratory Tract Fistula / etiology
  • Respiratory Tract Fistula / therapy*
  • Stents*
  • Treatment Outcome