Case report - Esophagus Oesophageal perforation complicating intraoperative transoesophageal echocardiography: suspicion can save lives

b Abstract Oesophageal injury is an extremely rare complication of intra-operative transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) associated with cardiac surgery. We report a case of delayed presentation (19 days after surgery) of oesophageal injury that was likely due to TOE following an aortic valve replacement. Lack of suspicion led to a delay in diagnosis but the patient fortunately survived. We advocate that in the event of postoperative hydropneumothorax, the differential diagnosis must include iatrogenic oesophageal injury from transoesophageal echo. 2010 Published by European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.