Successful treatment of Boerhaave's syndrome with endoscopic insertion of a self-expandable metallic stent: Report of three cases and a review of theliterature

Boerhaave's syndrome is a rare but life-threatening condition which present s a diagnostic as well as therapeutic challenge. Early diagnosis and prompt surgical repair are critical for survival; however late recognition of eso phageal rupture is not unusual. A variety of nonsurgical approaches have be en proposed, particularly in the case of delayed diagnosis. In recent years , the insertion of a metallic stent has been described as a promising modal ity in the treatment of spontaneous esophageal rupture. We report three cas es of Boerhaave's syndrome treated with self-expandable metallic stents and review previously published cases.