Late presentation of sub-carinal esophageal perforation due to blunt trauma to chest: case report and review of literature

Abstract

An esophageal perforation due to blunt trauma to chest is extremely rare and most often associated with road traffic accidents at high speeds. Symptoms and signs associated with esophageal perforation are non-specific and easily confused with other injuries common in polytrauma patients. The condition carries a significant morbidity and mortality and any delay in diagnosis further worsens the prognosis for the patient. We report a case of late presentation of post-traumatic esophageal perforation present below the level of carina in a young male who was managed conservatively.