What happens when the esophagus splits open?

What happens when the esophagus splits open?

A split in the esophagus is an emergency and can be fatal. That’s because the esophagus, as part of the gastrointestinal tract, is designed to carry substances that are toxic to the rest of your body. If food particles, bacteria and digestive chemicals leak from your esophagus into your chest or abdomen, serious infection can result. Infection that enters the systemic bloodstream can lead to septicemia and sepsis, a life-threatening reaction that can include shock, multiple organ failure and death.