Radical approach to traumatic tracheoesophageal fistula: Use of a biliary stent for esophageal repair in an infant

Abstract

Background: The incidence of button battery ingestion has increased over time along with its most alarming complications including tracheoesophageal fistula. Historically this issue has been treated with sternotomy and closure of the fistula. However, morbidity and mortality of this invasive approach can be improved upon. Methods: This is an expert report from a tertiary care center, utilizing an adult biliary stent for closure of a giant 2 cm traumatic TEF secondary to a button battery ingestion in a 9 month old. Results: The patient's fistula healed with this radical approach and demonstrated a full return to swallowing, without invasive operative interventions. Conclusion: We present a radical approach with successful treatment of a TEF. This is the first study of its kind to utilize adult biliary stents for closure of a traumatic TEF in an infant. Level of evidence: V.

Keywords

• Button battery
• Esophageal stent
• Tracheoesophageal fistula
• Infant