Gastrobronchial fistula after esophageal cancer surgery treated by silicone plug.

Abstract

Gastrobronchial fistula (GBF) is a rare but serious complication following esophagectomy, associated with high morbidity and mortality. The use of silicone plugs has proven effective in closing bronchial fistulas in other contexts, but its application in GBF has not been widely described. In this article, we report the successful closure of a GBF using a self-made silicone plug under bronchoscopic guidance in a patient with a history of esophagectomy for esophageal cancer. This approach offers a safe, minimally invasive alternative for managing refractory GBF.