Blunt Pharyngoesophageal Injury: an Overview of a Rare Entity

To characterize the epidemiology, diagnostic approach, management, and outcomes of blunt pharyngoesophageal injuries. These injuries remain exceedingly rare. Clinical symptoms and signs may not be revealing. Most recommendations regarding diagnosis and management are extrapolated from penetrating aerodigestive injuries. High-resolution computerized tomography has emerged as the most useful initial imaging modality that may guide the need for additional studies and/or intervention. Esophagography and endoscopic evaluation remain of paramount importance when an injury is confirmed or suspected as they can assist in determining therapeutic actions. Non-operative management is feasible and should be considered selectively to avoid septic complications. Blunt pharyngoesophageal injuries can be managed similarly to those from penetrating mechanism. The use of computerized tomography should be more liberal to rule out associated injuries, as blunt trauma patients are at risk for having additional occult life-threatening injuries. Non-operative managements should be carefully deployed.