Airway and ventilation management during repair of a large acquired tracheoesophageal fistula: the novel use of a readily available tool

Acquired tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a life-threatening disorder of the airway that requires early diagnosis and treatment. The case of an infant who had delayed development of a TEF following endoscopic removal of a disc battery lodged in the midesophagus is reported. A repeat bronchoscopy, performed for respiratory distress 4 days later, showed a large defect in the posterior wall of the distal trachea, including the carina. A Foley catheter was used for airway management in the repair of the acquired TEF.