ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the non-iatrogenic traumatic esophageal injuries to allow a more narrow focus on the true presentation, diagnosis, and management of these specific types of injuries. In the case of traumatic injuries to the esophagus and tracheobronchial tree, the evidence consists mostly of case reports, retrospective analyses, and opinions. Blunt cervical esophageal injury is thought to occur from a sudden blow to a hyperextended neck similar to cervical tracheal injury with the esophagus stretched against the cervical spine. Penetrating cervical tracheal injury is more common occurring in up to 7.5% of patients. Blunt cervical tracheal injury can occur from hyperextension or flexion and contact of the neck with the dashboard or steering wheel in a motor vehicle crash. The high mediastinal tracheal injury with associated vascular injury may also be approached through a sternotomy incision. The left mainstem bronchus is best approached through a left posterolateral thoracotomy.
