Open AccessDelayed presentation of intrathoracic esophageal perforation after pneumatic dilation for achalasia
Author(s) -
MengChih Lin,
WeiChen Tai,
King-Wah Chiu,
YehPin Chou,
MingChao Tsai,
Tsung–Hui Hu,
Chuan–Mo Lee,
Chi–Sin Changchien,
SengKee Chuah
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
world journal of gastroenterology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.427
H-Index - 155
eISSN - 2219-2840
pISSN - 1007-9327
DOI - 10.3748/wjg.15.4461
Subject(s) - medicine , achalasia , perforation , surgery , adverse effect , esophagus , presentation (obstetrics) , general surgery , punching , materials science , metallurgy
Pneumatic dilation (PD) is considered to be a safe and effective first line therapy for achalasia. The major adverse event caused by PD is esophageal perforation but an immediate gastrografin test may not always detect a perforation. It has been reported that delayed management of perforation for more than 24 h is associated with high mortality. Surgery is the treatment of choice within 24 h, but the management of delayed perforation remains controversial. Hereby, we report a delayed presentation of intrathoracic esophageal perforation following PD in a 48-year-old woman who suffered from achalasia. She completely recovered after intensive medical care. A review of the literature is also discussed.