Tracheoesophageal Fistula as a Complication of Prolonged Ventilation in COVID-19: Description of Reconstruction and Review of the Literature

We present a case of TEF in a 63-year-old female secondary to prolonged mechanical ventilation in the setting of COVID pneumonia, detailing the clinical findings and surgical repair. Primary closure of the esophageal defect with pectoralis major muscle flap onlay and tracheal resection, with median sternotomy for access, provided successful intervention, allowing for subsequent tracheostomy decannulation and return to a complete oral diet. This case offers further evidence of the increased risk of airway complications in COVID-19 infection and provides otolaryngologists with an example of a rare surgical approach useful in management.PMID:37534592 | DOI:10.1177/01455613231189907

Source: Ear, Nose and Throat Journal - August 3, 2023 Category: ENT & OMF Authors: Kendra N Walker Kevin J Carlson Benjamin J Rubinstein John T Sinacori Jonathan R Mark Source Type: research