Use of Injectable Carboxymethylcellulose Gel in the Treatment of Acquired Bronchoesophageal Fistula Secondary to Lung Cancer

Bronchoesophageal fistula (BEF) is a rare but serious complication of malignant neoplasia of the lung. Whereas endoscopic stenting has emerged as a less invasive alternative, persistent or complicated fistulas may require adjunctive therapies. We present a case of successful closure of a 4-mm BEF secondary to stage IIIB left lung squamous cell carcinoma in a 64-year-old man, refractory to stenting and endoscopic suturing, achieved without surgery. This case highlights the potential role of carboxymethylcellulose gel as a minimally invasive adjunct to stents in management of small yet persistent BEFs.