Tracheoesophageal Fistula: Bridging the Gap by Over‑the‑scope Clip Services

Abstract

Tracheoesophageal fistula (TOF) can be congenital or acquired. Acquired TOF can be caused by iatrogenic or traumatic or due to malignancy with pulmonary infection or aspiration being the presenting symptom. Management of TOF is associated with high mortality and morbidity and remains an interdisciplinary challenge. In general, depending on the size and location of the tracheal aspect of the fistula, surgical therapy involves primary repair of the fistula and, if necessary, resection and reconstruction of the trachea. We present two cases of iatrogenic TOF following surgery successfully closed using over‑the‑scope clips. This report also compares both the Ovesco and Padlock clip devices.

Keywords

• endoscopic closure devices
• over‑the‑scope clips
• tracheoesophageal fistula