Bengaluru: Man cured of rare oesophagus tract disease

Bengaluru: After experiencing retching, vomiting, severe chest and abdominal pain, along with difficulty in breathing, 56-year-old Uday (name changed) approached BGS Gleneagles Global Hospitals, Kengeri a few months ago.

After diagnosis the doctors found he was suffering from Boerhaave’s Syndrome, a rare medical condition, with an incidence rate of 3.1 cases per 10 lakh people a year.  

It is a lethal disease of the gastrointestinal tract, with a high mortality rate, which occurs when there is a spontaneous perforation of the oesophagus tract. After a few tests, doctors found Uday had a tear in the lower food pipe and he underwent surgery to drain the accumulated pus and treat the tear. The survival of Boerhaave’s syndrome relies on rapid recognition and intervention, as lack of therapeutic interventions can be fatal. Unfortunately, just as Uday was believed to be recovering, he developed fever. An investigation revealed a hole in the lower oesophagus.

To avoid the risk of a repeat surgery, the doctors opted for a newer endoscopic modality. In a 45-minute procedure, the leakage in the food pipe was corrected through a metal stent that was placed on the tear. The stent was removed endoscopically three months later.

Dr Adarsh C.K., Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at BGS Gleneagles Hospitals, said, “Perforation of the esophagus as seen in Boerhaave Syndrome constitutes a true emergency. However, newer endoscopic methods have revolutionised treatment allowing us to avoid surgery, and reducing the cost and duration of hospital stay.”

Currently, it has been 6 months since Uday’s stent was removed and he has gained 10 kilos and is on a normal diet.

Overindulgence in food or alcohol are major risk factors for spontaneous perforation of the oesophagus. A history of increased intra-esophageal pressure for any reason, followed by chest pain or breathing difficulty is a warning sign.