Mohammed Hazim Aldabbagh, Khalid Nawaf Abdurrahman.
Outcome of children in esophageal atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula who survived after repair: a case series of 20 cases.
Pak Paed J Jan ;36(3):158-63.

Background: This study was performed to evaluate the postoperative problems and quality of life of children who survived after repair of esophageal atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula. Methods: A total of 20 cases of esophageal atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula survived after previous primary esophageal repair were included in the follow up at Heevi pediatric teaching hospital/Duhok city, between January 2006 and January 2011. Patients’ demographics and the associated anomalies were evaluated. Postoperatively, patients were evaluated for respiratory and gastrointestinal morbidities. Results: Thirteen patients were male and seven were female. The mean gestational age and mean birth weight were 38 weeks and 2.9 kg respectively. Two patients had associated imperforate anus. Postoperative complications were found in 12 (60%) patients; recurrent lower respiratory infections in 12 (60%), esphageal reflux in 8 (40%), stricture in 6 (30%), anastomotic leakage in 1(5%), and recurrent fistula in 1 (5%) patient. Patients with esphageal strictures were treated with balloon dilatation. Conclusions: Recurrent respiratory tract infections and gastro-esphageal reflux were the main post operative problems in children with esophageal atresia with distal tracheoesophageal. Otherwise they may live a normal life. Balloon dilatation was effective in treatment of esphageal strictures. Routine post-operative dilatation is unnecessary.

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