Benign bronchogastric fistula as a late complication after transhiatal oesophagogastrectomy: evaluation with multidetector row CT.

Abstract

The late development of a bronchogastric fistula is a rare complication of oesophagectomy, although the anatomical relationship between the tracheobronchial tree and the neo-oesophagus is close. Its early diagnosis can be difficult and may result in a poor prognosis owing to the development of recurrent pulmonary infection and malnutrition. Multidetector row CT (MDCT) can provide excellent three-dimensional and multiplanar reconstruction images; therefore, the potential benefit of MDCT in diagnosing bronchogastric fistula is early and accurate detection. We present our experience with a late onset bronchogastric fistula evaluated using MDCT. Evaluation of bronchogastric fistulae using MDCT could help to confirm the diagnosis of this condition, and increase our understanding of the anatomical relationship between the neo-oesophagus and the bronchus. Therefore, it could provide valuable information for establishing a treatment plan.