Esophageal Food Impaction: Endoscopic Findings and Underlying Esophageal Pathologies

Aims Food impaction is a common reason for emergency endoscopy in adults and often uncovers underlying esophageal abnormalities. This study aims to describe the underlying pathologies identified through endoscopic examination in patients presenting with esophageal food impaction.

Methods This retrospective study was conducted between 2018 and 2024, involving patients who underwent upper endoscopy for esophageal food impaction. Demographic data and endoscopic abnormalities were systematically recorded, while additional diagnostic tests, such as esophageal biopsies and manometry, were documented only when performed.

Results Among the 26 patients included in the study, 17 were men (65.4%) and 9 were women (34.6%), with a mean age of 54.72±20 years. Endoscopic examination revealed an underlying esophageal abnormality in 19 patients (73.1%). The most frequent abnormality identified was peptic esophagitis, diagnosed in 7 patients (26.9%). A Schatzki ring was present in 4 patients (15.4%), while mycotic esophagitis was observed in 3 patients (11.5%). A sensation of jerking when crossing the cardia by the endoscope in favor of a motor disorder was noted in 3 patients (11.5%), the esophageal manometric exploration confirmed the diagnosis of type ll achalasia. Additionally, eosinophilic esophagitis was diagnosed in 2 patients (7.7%). One patient experienced a perforation after the extraction of a chicken bone impacted in the distal esophagus, which obstructed a previously sealed perforation; this was addressed by placing two clips post-extraction.

Conclusions Our study reveals a high prevalence of underlying esophageal abnormalities in patients with food impaction, notably peptic esophagitis. Thus, endoscopic exploration must be systematic even after their spontaneous resolution.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
27. März 2025