Boerhaave’s syndrome is a rare but life-threatening condition which presents a diagnostic
as well as therapeutic challenge. Early diagnosis and prompt surgical repair are critical
for survival; however late recognition of esophageal rupture is not unusual. A variety
of nonsurgical approaches have been proposed, particularly in the case of delayed
diagnosis. In recent years, the insertion of a metallic stent has been described as
a promising modality in the treatment of spontaneous esophageal rupture. We report
three cases of Boerhaave’s syndrome treated with self-expandable metallic stents and
review previously published cases.
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D.-H. Kang,M.D.
Department of Internal Medicine Gil Medical Center, Gachon Medical School
1198 Kuwol-Dong
Namdong-Ku, Inchon Korea 405-760
Fax: + 82-32-4603408
Email: dhkang@ghil.com