Management of congenital esophageal stenosis: retrospective study of 15 cases

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to find an optimal procedure of diagnosis and treatment for congenital esophageal stenosis (CES). Methods From 1990 to 2009, 15 CES patients were treated in our hospital. Demographical, clinical, pathological and radiological data were collected retrospectively. Patients were further divided into surgery group and non-surgery group. Outcomes and complications were studied to identify the indication and timing for operation. Results The age of presentationof of these 15 patients (9 boys and 6 girls) were 10± 5. 5 months (1 day ～ 41months).Vomiting was the most significant and common symptomign. UGI were performed in all the 15 patients. 9 patients had stenosis in lower esophagus and 6 in mid-lower esophagus. In surgery group, 6patients underwent surgical resection; the remaining 2 patients underwent Heller myotomy esophagomyotomy and stricturoplasty, respectively. Tracheobronchial remnants were found in 2 patients and submucosal thickening were found in 5 patients. Inflammatory pseudotumor was found in the rest 1patient. The frequency of esophageal anastomotic stricture, gastroesophageal reflux and diaphragmatic erentration were 44.4 % (4/9), 22. 2 % (2/9) and 11.1% (1/9), repectively. Conclusions UGI is the first choice for the diagnosis of CES, while electronic gastroscope can play an alternative role. Esophageal dilatation could be the first therapy for CES, and operation is indicated when outcome dilatation fails. Key words: Esophageal stenosis, congenital; Diagnosis; Surgical procedures,operative