− | An oesophageal fistula is an abnormal connection between the oesophageal lumen and a structure in its immediate vicinity, most commonly the lungs or other respiratory structures producing a '''bronocho-oesophageal fistula'''. In rare cases, fistulae may be congenital but they are usually acquired phenomena. Acquired oesophageal fistulae occur when severe inflammation or disruption of the oesophageal wall leads to [[Rupture of the Oesophagus|perforation]] and, as this heals, a tract is formed with the respiratory system. Causes of the initial insult include [[Oesophageal Foreign Body|foreign bodies]], [[Oesophageal Neoplasia|neoplasia]] and severe [[Oesophagitis|oesophagitis]]. Passage of oesophageal luminal contents into the respiratory system may result in localised pneumonia, pleurisy and pulmonary abscessation. | + | An oesophageal fistula is an abnormal connection between the oesophageal lumen and a structure in its immediate vicinity, most commonly the lungs or other respiratory structures (producing a '''bronocho-oesophageal fistula'''). In rare cases, fistulae may be congenital but they are usually acquired phenomena. Acquired oesophageal fistulae occur when severe inflammation or disruption of the oesophageal wall leads to [[Rupture of the Oesophagus|perforation]] and, as this heals, a tract is formed with the respiratory system. Causes of the initial insult include [[Oesophageal Foreign Body|foreign bodies]], [[Oesophageal Neoplasia|neoplasia]] and severe [[Oesophagitis|oesophagitis]]. Passage of oesophageal luminal contents into the respiratory system may result in localised pneumonia, pleurisy and pulmonary abscessation. |