SPONTANEOUS RUPTURE OF ESOPHAGUS

Abstract

Contrast material was injected under pressure and fluoroscopic observation made into the esophagi of cadavers. Protrusion and linear tears, typically occurred in the postero-lateral lower third of the esophagus. They resembled those seen clinically. Spontaneous rupture probably involves inherent or acquired weakness of the wall, neuromuscular incoordination, chemical damage to the mucosa, general debility and elevated intraesophageal pressure.