COMBINED GUNSHOT INJURIES OF THE TRACHEA AND ESOPHAGUS

During an 8-year period between 1985 and 1993, twelve patients were tr eated with combined gunshot wounds to the trachea and esophagus. All p atients survived, but there were complications, including one tracheoe sophogeal fistula. Combined injuries of the trachea and esophagus shou ld be repaired primarily, and drains do not necessarily have to be pla ced. The benefit of a muscle flap placed between the repairs was not c onfirmed in this series. Complications should be recognized early and treated aggressively to minimize damage to the airway.