Work

The State of the Art in Acquired Tracheoesophageal Fistula Management

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a challenging, complex condition with a wide spectrum of underlying causes and clinical manifestations. TEF management requires a deep understanding of anatomical characteristics, underlying conditions, and a multidisciplinary approach to optimize the diagnostic pathways and treatment allocations. The management of benign and malignant TEF has shown progress in its effective treatment; however, surgical techniques remain a challenge and are often complemented by innovative stent deployment strategies. Concurrently, new techniques are being added to the treatment landscape; however, the evidence remains largely limited to case reports. Nevertheless, despite the substantial advancements in the management of TEF, there remains a lack of consensus or established guidelines for this condition in the adult population, and the treatment approach remains highly individualized. The aim of this article is to summarize the current treatment strategies for this complex disease.

Source: Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery

DOI: 10.1053/j.semtcvs.2025.11.004