Management of pediatric esophageal perforation.

Esophageal perforation is a serious complication necessitating immediate therapy. In a retrospective study we have evaluated the results in 13 children treated for esophageal perforation. Eleven of 13 perforations could be managed conservatively. In one child with extrapleural effusion, tube drainage was performed. The only death in this series occurred in a child who was brought for treatment after a 60-hour delay. Thoracotomy and multiple abscess drainage eventually proved unsuccessful. On the basis of our experience with children with esophageal perforation or with complications after esophageal atresia repair, we conclude that management of esophageal perforation in children differs substantially from therapy in adults and necessitates restrictive treatment guided by clinical symptoms.