Management of malignant esophagorespiratory fistula.

Esophagorespiratory communication developed in 46 patients among 570 with esophageal cancer. Therapy was basically palliative and aimed at mechanical interruption of the fistula, restoration of esophageal continuity, and avoidance of external tubes and appliances. Supportive therapy, gastrostomy, tracheostomy, and esophageal exclusion and diversion procedures resulted in little prolongation of life and poor palliation of the patient. Permanent endoesophageal intubation with tubes of the Celestin variety resulted in best palliation with minimal operative risk for most terminal patients. Colon bypass and occasional resection can accomplish the same goal and possibly provide long-term survival in good-risk, young patients with small tumors.