Abstract
Preterm infants are highly susceptible to injuries following necessary and often life-saving medical interventions. Esophageal perforation is a rare, yet serious complication that can be caused by aerodigestive tract suction, endotracheal intubation, or nasogastric tube placement. We present the case of a neonate born at 23 weeks plus three days of gestation with chest radiography showing malposition of the nasogastric feeding tube and massive right-sided effusion of Iopamidol in the pleural cavity due to esophageal perforation. In addition, the article summarizes common signs and symptoms associated with esophageal perforation in infants and discusses diagnostic approaches.
Highlights
Esophageal perforation (EP) is a rare, yet serious complication [1], with an incidence of 1 : 124 among preterm infants weighing less than 1500 g at birth [2]
Iatrogenic EP can be caused by vigorous pharyngoesophageal suction, traumatic endotracheal intubation, and insertion of
EP did not present with sudden respiratory deterioration, which is the most common symptom [1]
Summary
Esophageal perforation (EP) is a rare, yet serious complication [1], with an incidence of 1 : 124 among preterm infants weighing less than 1500 g at birth [2]. Mortality is as high as 20% in these vulnerable patients [3]
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