Oesophageal perforation a report of 13 cases

Abstract

A series of 13 cases of oesophageal perforation seen between 1961 and 1972 is reported. The various causes of perforation are discussed, with emphasis on the need for rapid diagnosis. Conservative treatment is considered to lead to a high mortality-rate. One of the 10 patients who were treated surgically in this series died. It is recommended that patients with a carcinoma be treated in a single operation, and in achalasia of the cardia the use of a rigid oesophagoscope should be avoided.