Esophagotracheal Fistula: A Life-Threatening Complication of Prolonged Ventilation

Esophagotracheal fistula (ETF) is a rare and severe complication of prolonged tracheal intubation, often caused by ischemia of the tracheoesophageal walls. Its diagnosis is challenging and may be delayed, with bronchoscopic esophagotracheal examination and cervicothoracic computed tomography (CT) being the preferred diagnostic tools [1, 2]. Treatment varies depending on the clinical presentation and the severity of associated pulmonary damage. Prognosis is closely linked to the extent and nature of secondary complications. This report highlights a rare case of ETF following prolonged tracheal intubation.