Esophageal perforation

Alternative names:

perforation of the esophagus

Definition:

The esophagus is the muscular tube within the mediastinum which conveys food from the mouth to the stomach. Perforation of the esophagus occurs when a defect is made or occurs through the entire thickness of the muscular wall and into the mediastinum. This often results in infection of the mediastinum or mediastinitis Perforation may occur as a result of a procedure such as placement of a nasogastric tube or esophagoscopy; or as the result of a disease process such as a tumor, gastric reflux with scarring and ulceration; or as a mechanical problem such as violent vomiting.