Pattern of Oesophageal Diseases Presenting to the Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital over A 5-Year-Period

Abstract

Oesophageal diseases encompass a wide spectrum of conditions that affect individuals of all ages, ranging from benign motility  disorders to malignant neoplasms. This study delves into the patterns, demographics, diagnoses, and management of oesophageal  diseases among patients presenting to the Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit (CTSU) at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Nigeria,  from 2018 to 2023.A retrospective cohort study design was employed, focusing on patients referred to the CTSU LUTH with suspected or  diagnosed oesophageal diseases within the specified period. Data was collected from medical records, and analysis was carried out using  IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 26). The study reveals that the highest percentage of oesophageal disease cases occurs in patients under the age of 10, representing 28.6% of the total cases, with a mean age of 35.15 years, emphasizing the wide age variation within this  patient population. Gender distribution shows a near balance between males (57.1%) and females (42.9%). The most prevalent  diagnosis is Achalasia (26.5%), followed by Oesophageal Cancer and Foreign Body Impaction (12.2% each). Esophagoscopy is the most  common procedure (32.4%), peaking in 2020. Furthermore, foreign body impactions constituted 53.84% of oesophageal foreign body  cases, notably involving dentures in 57.14% of instances. Additionally, "Corrosive Stricture" comprised 28.57% of oesophageal stricture cases.This study sheds light on the diverse landscape of oesophageal diseases at the CTSU LUTH. It underscores the importance of age- related trends, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance in children under six, especially in light of increased cases during the  COVID-19 pandemic. Achalasia remains a concern, necessitating long-term monitoring. Esophagoscopy stands out as a crucial diagnostic  and therapeutic tool. Further research in this field holds promise for improved interventions and patient well-being.