Long- and Short-Term Outcomes of Tracheo-Oesophageal Fistula and Esophageal Atresia

AbstractPurpose of the ReviewEsophageal atresia remains a complex congenital anomaly that manifests in a number of different variants ranging from pure atresia to trachea-esophageal fistula without atresia. The surgical treatment options have continued to evolve with advances in technology and innovative procedures but the results for the patients with long-gap atresia remain challenging.Recent FindingsDocumenting the outcomes from interventions in this population is difficult given the limited experience at most centers and the heterogeneity of the anomalies and the treatments. Several recent studies have provided comparison data for some newer. Studies demonstrate better results in primary procedures than secondary operations but significant morbidity remains.Another innovation has been application of minimally invasive procedures to all forms of esophageal atresia. Reports of excellent results are encouraging with a theoretical reduction in the risk of long-term chest wall abnormalities.SummaryEsophageal atresia remains one of the most challenging congenital abnormalities requiring surgical intervention. While some progress has been made, dramatic impact awaits advances in tissue engineering or other game changing developments.
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research