Stable Penetrating Chest Trauma

Annotation for Point L

The upper two third of the intrathoracic esophagus is approached via a right sixth intercostal space incision and the lower one third via a left seventh posterolateral thoracotomy. Because the mechanism is usually stab wound or small caliber gunshot, simple debridement, primary repair, and pleural wrap are sufficient in most cases.⁴⁷ If endoscopy and/or esophagogramdetermine that the airway or esophageal injury is minor and without loss of significant tissue and without active leak, nonoperative management usually suffices.