ESOPHAGEAL-PERFORATION CAUSED BY COIN INGESTION

Esophageal perforation and acquired tracheoesophageal fistulae (ATEF) are rare sequelae of foreign body ingestion in the pediatric populatio n. Here we discuss the cases of two patients with esophageal perforati on caused by prolonged impaction of a coin; in one case, a tracheoesop hageal fistula developed. The presence of aerodigestive symptoms and s igns in infants and small children should prompt physicians to conside r foreign body ingestion and the presence of an ATEF. Clinical present ation, diagnostic modalities, and technical considerations for surgica l management are outlined.