Grading Esophageal Perforations Improves Outcome Predictions

Severely graded esophageal perforations (grades I-IV) impact patient survival differently, with grades II-IV showing lower overall survival rates. Factors such as duration of injury >24 hours, presence of mediastinitis, and esophageal necrosis are associated with unfavorable outcomes. Grading severity based on diagnostic CT scans, endoscopic, radiological, and clinical findings helps guide treatment decisions and may influence morbidity and mortality. Gender, age, and cause of perforation do not significantly affect survival rates. Establishing a grading system for esophageal perforations can enhance treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes.