Iatrogenic Esophageal Perforation in Preterm Neonate Managed Conservatively

Abstract

We present a premature male neonate in whom insertion of a nasogastric tube for feeding resulted in perforation injury of the esophagus, which is a conceivable fatal condition. Esophageal perforation in Infants is usually iatrogenic. A chest radiograph in suspected cases, along with careful inspection of the nasogastric tube in relation to surrounding structures, can lead to the diagnosis of this condition; flexible endoscopy is also helpful to confirm the perforation site. Surgery is avoided in most cases, and management is usually conservative. The outcome is not always favorable, especially as premature infants are at risk of associated pathology.