What clinical sign is associated with Boerhaave's tears?

Boerhaave's tears, also known as spontaneous esophageal rupture, are characterized by the presence of Hamman's sign. This sign is noted in patients who have developed a pneumomediastinum due to air leaking into the mediastinum. It presents as a crunching sound that is synchronous with the heartbeat, typically heard on auscultation of the chest, and is indicative of the underlying esophageal rupture.

This condition often occurs following an episode of severe vomiting or retching, leading to tearing of the esophagus. The presence of Hamman's sign is a critical clinical finding that guides further diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in patients suspected of having this serious condition. Recognizing this sign is essential for timely management, given the high risk of morbidity and mortality associated with Boerhaave's syndrome.