Oesophageal perforation by gunshot - conservative surgical treatment

Introduction:Penetrating injuries such as gunshot wounds have been usual in Ciudad Juarez (Mexico), secondary to theexpansion of organized crime like traffic of narcotics. Our surgical team (predominantly residents ofsurgery) obtain wide experience in their management. Oesophageal perforation is a rare, difficult to treatand a life-threatening condition with a mortality rate ranging between 10% and 40%. It can happen in all theoesophagus segments cervical, intrathoracic, or intra-abdominal. It usually occurs as a result of iatrogenicinjury due to endoscopic procedures or as spontaneous rupture. It is seen less frequently in trauma aftergunshot or stab wounds.