Oesophageal perforation

This is a rupture of the oesophagus, the part of the gastrointestinal tract that runs from the mouth to the stomach.

The most common cause is perforation following a medical procedure.

It presents as retrosternal chest pain (sometimes neck pain) and difficulty swallowing.

The diagnosis is made clinically by a detailed history and physical examination. It is confirmed by imaging tests such as a chest X-ray and/or CT-scan.

Initial treatment is aimed at stabilising the patient's clinical condition and relieving the pain, while treating the cause and any resulting complications.