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Table 1 Criteria for non-operative management of esophageal perforations

From: Esophageal emergencies: WSES guidelines

Delay in management

Early: less than 24 h

Clinical presentation

Absence of symptoms and signs of sepsis

Radiological criteria

Cervical or thoracic location of the esophageal perforation

Contained perforation by surrounding tissues

- Intramural

- Minimal peri-esophageal extravasation of contrast material with intra-esophageal drainage

- Absence of massive pleural contamination

Esophageal characteristics

No preexistent esophageal disease

Other

Possibility of close surveillance by expert esophageal team

Availability of round the clock surgical and radiological skills