A large bolus of meat may become stuck in the esophagus. Although often associated with a steakhouse, it can occur in many settings.
Features:
(1) A large bolus of meat becomes stuck in the esophagus.
(2) Often there is an underlying disorder of the esophagus (see below).
(3) There is acute obstruction of the esophagus which interferes with eating and swallowing.
(4) The patient often has pain and/or eosphageal spasm.
Sometimes the patient presents with dysphagia with the diagnosis made at endoscopy.
Any patient with impacted food should undergo a complete evaluation to identify an underlying disorder. There may be narrowing due to a stricture, tumor or something pressing on the esophagus. If the esophagus is structurally normal then a motility disorder may be present.
The risk factors are the same as for someone who requires a Heimlich maneuver:
(1) alcohol intoxication
(2) failure to chew food adequately (dentures, etc)
(3) distraction or conversation
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
