Multimodal diagnostic and surgical approach to spontaneous esophageal rupture induced by severe coughing: A case report

Figure 1 Computed tomography scans. A: Initial chest and abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans of the patient. CT results indicate a small left-sided pneumothorax caused by severe coughing; approximately 30% compression of the lung tissue is observed; B: Postoperative CT scan. The follow-up CT scan shows a reduction in the left-sided pneumothorax and significant absorption of the mediastinal emphysema, suggesting marked improvement in the thoracic condition.

Figure 2 Ultrasound-guided thoracentesis. Diagnostic thoracentesis was performed under ultrasound guidance, yielding dark brown turbid fluid containing esophageal debris.

Figure 3 Esophagogram. A: The esophagogram reveals contrast leakage into the thoracic cavity from the lower esophagus, indicating an esophageal rupture; B: Postoperative esophagogram review. The postoperative esophagogram revealed no contrast leakage, indicating the successful repair of the esophageal perforation.

Figure 4 Illustrative summary of spontaneous esophageal rupture induced by severe coughing: Case analysis and treatment strategy. CT: Computed tomography.