ABSTRACT
If an esophageal laceration is present, tissue viability is assessed and necrotic tissue debrided. Tension-free apposition is required to achieve primary healing of the esophagus. The submucosa is the strength layer in the esophagus and there is no serosa which is important for forming a fibrin seal to prevent leakage and dehiscence. Complications of esophageal tears include dehiscence, stricture formation and infection.
