Fatal Complication of Esophagus Dilatation: Cardiac Tamponade
Author Information
Author(s): Greven Wendela L, Kooij Nicole, Peters Herman M, Kardux Joost, Spronk Peter E
Primary Institution: Gelre Hospitals, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
Can esophagus dilatation for benign stenosis lead to fatal complications such as cardiac tamponade?
Conclusion
The case highlights that manipulation of the esophagus can lead to serious complications like cardiac tamponade months later.
Supporting Evidence
- Postmortem examination revealed a fistula from the esophagus to the pericardium.
- The patient had a history of benign esophagus stenosis and developed a cardiac tamponade.
- Fluid buildup around the heart was confirmed through ultrasound.
Takeaway
A man had a procedure to widen his esophagus, but later developed a serious problem that caused his heart to stop working because of fluid buildup around it.
Methodology
Case report detailing the patient's medical history, symptoms, treatment, and postmortem findings.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
71-year-old Caucasian male.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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