Identification of acquired tracheoesophageal fistula after tracheostomy decannulation by videofluoroscopic swallowing study

Rationale: Videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) is a noninvasive radiographic procedure that examines the oral, pharyngeal, and cervical esophageal stages of swallowing. Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is difficult to diagnose depending on its size and location. However, how VFSS can be of benefit in the diagnosis of TEF has not been reported yet. Patient concerns: A 64-year-old man who had been tracheostomized post spinal tumor resection surgery at the cervical level 1 to 2, had his tracheostomy tube removed approximately 25 years ago. After decannulation, he reported coughing while swallowing food, foreign sensation in the neck and repeated bouts of pneumonia ever since. Diagnosis: VFSS revealed, for the first time, acquired TEF after tracheostomy decannulation as the cause of repetitive aspiration pneumonia. Intervention: VFSS was performed in this case. Outcomes: In the background of suspected TEF based on VFSS results, the patient underwent a computed tomography scan of the chest and airway in the prone position, followed by bronchoscopy, which confirmed the existence of a TEF. He then underwent primary closure of the fistula. The patient had an uneventful recovery and is currently symptom-free 10 months after the surgery. Lessons: This case alerts clinicians to the possibility of TEF as a diagnosis when the aspirate leaks from the upper esophagus and through the posterior wall of trachea in the esophageal phase of VFSS.