Management of spontaneous rupture of the oesophagus (Boerhaave's syndrome): single centre experience of 18 cases.

Background: Spontaneous oesophageal rupture (Boerhaave's syndrome) is rare, and carries a high attendant risk of mortality.

Methods: A retrospective eight-year review from a tertiary unit.

Results: Eighteen patients were managed, with a mean age of 57 (39 - 88 years).