Cases of acquired benign fistula of the respiratory tree and esophagus have been reported in relation to Mycobacterium tuberculosis and trauma. Fistula formation between the trachea and a Zenker's diverticulum is a similar type of condition in which nutritional and immunological deficiencies can rapidly result in further complications which may mimic a malignancy. Spontaneous fistula formation and vocal cord paralysis may result. Surgical management of this condition includes interposing viable muscle between the esophagus and trachea at the repair site.
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