Esophageal Perforation and Caustic Injury

Esophageal perforation is a highly morbid injury with mortality rates approaching 40–50%. Injury to nearby structures and delay in diagnosis greater than 24 h are associated with a poorer prognosis; therefore, early diagnosis is key to optimal outcomes. Presenting signs and symptoms can be similar to other serious conditions including acute myocardial infarction, perforated peptic ulcer, and acute pancreatitis, which may contribute to diagnostic and treatment delay.