Management of Tracheoesophageal Fistula and Tracheoinnominate Fistula

Fistulization between the tracheobronchial tree and gastrointestinal tract is a challenging clinical situation that leads to life-threatening pulmonary contamination and inadequate nutrition. Operative management requires repair of both airway and esophageal defects with or without tracheal resection and reconstruction to restore a functional airway and maintain gastrointestinal continuity. Tracheoinnominate fistula is a rare communication between the airway and innominate artery that can result in fatal hemorrhage. Prompt operative intervention is lifesaving and can be performed by division of the innominate artery and interposition of a vascularized tissue flap between the trachea and divided artery.