The use of a covered expandable metal stent for the management of esophageotracheal fistula resulting from esophageal carcinoma: A case report

Abstract

Malignant esophagorespiratory fistula is a rare condition that is difficult to manage. Palliative treatment by surgical bypass is often unjustified, and the use of esophageal stents has been shown to be more appropriate. We describe a 64-year-old man with inoperable esophageal carcinoma presenting with symptoms of an esophagorespiratory fistula. A covered expandable metallic stent was successfully inserted into the esophagus. The patient's symptoms improved dramatically and he survived for 16 months. The use of a covered expandable metal stent is a safe and practical alternative treatment for palliating inoperable esophageal carcinomas in patients with esophagorespiratory fistulas.