Blunt traumatic esophageal injury: Unusual presentation and approach.

INTRODUCTION: Blunt esophageal injury is extremely rare event. However, it is a potential morbid injury unless managed early.

PRESENTATION OF CASE: We report a rare case of blunt esophageal injury for a 28-year old male who presented with history of fall of heavy object over the right side of the chest. Diagnostic work up including chest X-ray, computerized tomography scans and gastrografin esophagogram revealed lower esophageal rupture. Right mini-thoracotomy with esophageal repair was performed. Postoperative course was uneventful.

DISCUSSION: The exact mechanism of blunt esophageal injury remains uncertain. This report described a unique location of esophageal rupture after blunt trauma that happened on the right side. Diagnosis of esophageal injury needs high index of suspicion and accurate diagnostic workup.

CONCLUSION: Prompt diagnosis and management are the key for better prognosis in patients with blunt esophageal injury.