Temporal Evolution of Intramural Esophageal Dissection with 3D Reconstruction and Cinematic Virtual Fly-Through

Authors

  • Ying Mei Wong
  • Andrew Makmur
  • Li Ching Lau
  • Eric Ting

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3941/jrcr.v12i2.3288

Keywords:

Computed Tomography, Conservative Treatment, Dissection, Esophageal Mucosa, Hematoma

Abstract

Intramural esophageal dissection is an uncommon condition, involving the separation of the esophageal mucosa from the muscular layers. To our knowledge, the temporal evolution of intramural esophageal dissection on computed tomography has not been previously demonstrated. We present a case of a 51-year-old male who first presented to the emergency department with fever, odynophagia, and dysphagia. He was treated for acute tonsillitis and discharged, but presented again after 10 days with worsening symptoms. A series of radiographs and computed tomography studies, with 3D reconstruction and cinematic virtual fly-through, in these 2 admissions depicts the temporal evolution of intramural hematoma to subsequent intramural esophageal dissection. Recognizing its appearance on imaging is invaluable in distinguishing it from other important differential diagnoses. A complete description of the case, relevant radiologic imaging, and review of the relevant literature are provided.

Author Biographies

Ying Mei Wong

Department of Diagnostic Imaging

Resident

Andrew Makmur

Department of Diagnostic Imaging

Resident

Li Ching Lau

Department of Diagnostic Imaging

Consultant

Eric Ting

Department of Diagnostic Imaging

Senior Consultant

Published

2018-02-21

Issue

Section

Gastrointestinal Radiology