Esophageal fistula: serious complication after endoscopic thyroidectomy : A case report and literature review.

[RATIONALE] Esophageal fistula is a rare and serious complication after endoscopic thyroidectomy. Current research focuses more on surgical treatment, while there are few treatment plans for esophageal fistula after endoscopic thyroidectomy. There is currently no standardized intervention for esophageal fistula after thyroid surgery.

[PATIENT CONCERNS] The patient wants to cure the esophageal fistula as soon as possible and does not want to have other complications.

[DIAGNOSES] The patient was diagnosed with thyroid cancer.

[INTERVENTIONS] We summarize the key points of interventions as follows: First, a comprehensive assessment of the patient's condition was conducted before the surgery, and an individualized surgical approach was formulated. During the operation, preventive intervention measures were carried out. Second, after the surgery, fasting, gastrointestinal decompression, and supportive treatment were provided. Then, an individualized follow-up plan was developed after discharge to prevent long-term complications. At the same time, the negative emotions of the patients were also paid attention to, and timely counseling was given to help them return to society as soon as possible.

[OUTCOMES] The patient was hospitalized for 35 days. After the joint efforts of doctors, nurses, and patients, she recovered well and was discharged from the hospital 31 days after surgery. Two-month follow-up after discharge showed that gastrointestinal function recovered well, with no abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and other discomforts, and no long-term complications such as esophageal stenosis.

[LESSONS] The interventions we summarized are effective and feasible for patients with esophageal fistula after endoscopic thyroidectomy.