Transmural tracheal laceration during transhiatal esophagectomy for adenocarcinoma of esophagus

Abstract

We report a case of a patient undergoing transhiatal esophagectomy for carcinoma of lower one third of esophagus, who suffered intraoperative iatrogenic transmural tear of trachea just above the carina. This life threatening condition needed costal flap repair of tracheal laceration by thoracic surgeon. Early diagnosis, team approach by surgeons and anesthetists, and in time management are key elements for the survival and uneventful recovery of the patient.