Hypopharyngeal perforation: an unusual complication of transesophageal echocardiography

Ear Nose Throat J. 2011 Nov;90(11):E1-2.

Abstract

Physicians frequently use transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for clinical cardiology and during surgery. It is considered a safe procedure, and only a few cases of complications have been reported in the literature. We present the case of a 78-year-old man who experienced a perforation of the hypopharynx following TEE. The perforation went unrecognized for 10 days. Computed tomography identified a cervical abscess, which was drained. The patient recovered and was doing well at the 1-year follow-up. Hypopharyngeal perforation is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication. Surgeons should know and recognize its clinical signs to prevent its occurrence.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abscess / etiology*
  • Abscess / therapy
  • Aged
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Drainage
  • Echocardiography, Transesophageal / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Hypopharynx / injuries*
  • Male
  • Wounds, Penetrating / complications*
  • Wounds, Penetrating / surgery

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents