DOZ047.48: Postoperative anastomotic stricture after the operation for esophageal atresia

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Anastomotic stricture is the most common complication after the treatment of esophageal atresia. It occurs in 20–80% of operated patients. Predisposing factors are the leakage of the anastomosis, undertension anastomosis, elongation, and gastroesophageal reflux. A few dilation techniques are being utilized. Material and Methods Between 2006 and 2018, 79 patients with esophageal atresia were treated in the clinic. Primary or delayed anastomosis was possible in 69 patients. Five patients died in the early postoperative period. Clinical data of the remaining 64 patient were analyzed retrospectively. Results All anastomoses were calibrated with either bougie or balloon dilators. The anticipated diameter of the anastomosis was acquired during calibration in 24 patients (seven of these with bougie and 17 with balloon dilations). The total number of bougie dilations was 29 and balloon dilations 35. The stricture was present in 40 patients. In this group under—tension anastomoses were present in 25 patients, anastomotic leakage in 13 (81% of all leaks), gastroesophageal reflux in 14 (66% of all refluxes). The stricture was dilated with the balloon in 22 cases, bougie in 18 cases, stent placement in 3 cases. The number of required dilations was most often 2 or 3. In 4 patients multiple dilations were necessary. Dilating procedures were finished with a satisfactory result before the age of 6 months in 26 patients, 12 months in 13 and 24 months in 5 patients. Rupture of the anastomotic site during dilation occurred in 4 patients. Conclusions Anastomotic stricture occurred in 63% of patients. The majority of the undertension and leaking anastomoses were complicated with stricture. A single calibration with balloon was successful in 49% of cases compared to 24% bougie calibrations. In 59% of dilated patients, the procedure was finished before the age of 6 months, which enabled physiological feeding pattern.