Tracheoesophageal fistula associated with Barrett's ulcer: the importance of reflux control.
A benign tracheoesophageal fistula occurring as a complication of Barrett's ulcerative esophagitis is described. Surgical control of gastroesophageal reflux resulted in healing of the fistula, obviating the need for a resective procedure or esophageal exclusion. Although Barrett's ulcer has been reported as a cause of acquired esophagorespiratory fistula, to our knowledge, the important role of reflux control in the management of this difficult problem has not been discussed.
Diehl
J T
JT
Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, New England Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111.
Thomas
L
L
Bloom
M B
MB
Dresdale
A R
AR
Harasimowicz
P
P
Daly
B D
BD
Cleveland
R J
RJ
D000368:Aged; D001471:Barrett Esophagus / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D004935:Esophageal Diseases / Q000150:complications*; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D014138:Tracheoesophageal Fistula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D014456:Ulcer / Q000150:complications