Isolated proximal esophageal injury from blunt trauma: endoscopic stricture dilatation.
Blunt neck trauma can cause isolated esophageal injuries that may be difficult to recognize. A high index of suspicion is necessary for optimal identification and management of this condition. We report a case of blunt esophageal trauma resulting from a motor vehicle accident that was initially unrecognized until the patient developed a tight stricture of the cervical esophagus. This was successfully dilated endoscopically. Aerodigestive trauma resulting from neck injuries is reviewed with emphasis on the pathophysiology of esophageal trauma.
Department of Internal Medicine and Epidemiology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157, USA. bpineau@wfubmc.edu
Benoit C
BC
Pineau
David J
DJ
Ott
D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D004106:Dilatation; D004724:Endoscopy; D004940:Esophageal Stenosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy*; D004947:Esophagus / Q000293:injuries*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014949:Wounds, Nonpenetrating / Q000150:complications*