Ruptures and perforations of the esophagus: the case for conservative supportive management.
A series of 31 patients treated for ruptures and perforations of the intrathoracic esophagus is reviewed. Eighteen of these patients underwent major thoracotomy; 11 were treated with minor procedures. Two died before treatment could be implemented. Of the 18 undergoing major operations, 7 died; among the 11 managed conservatively there was only 1 death. Based on this experience, we conclude that major surgical repair for esophageal perforation is often unnecessary. It has the additional drawback of sometimes resulting in equally serious secondary procedures.
D004935:Esophageal Diseases / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D004939:Esophageal Perforation / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D004947:Esophagus / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012421:Rupture; D012422:Rupture, Spontaneous; D013997:Time Factors