Battery Swallow-Induced Tracheoesophageal Fistula in a Pediatric Patient

Abstract

Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is an abnormal connection between trachea and esophagus. Acquired TEF arise from trauma, caustic fluids ingestion, and iatrogenic injuries (ventilation, esophageal atresia repair, radiation, tracheal/esophageal stents). We discuss diagnosis, anesthetic management, and surgical correction of battery swallow-induced TEF, not previously reported in pediatric anesthesia and otorhinolaryngology literatures.