History Of Esophageal Atresia Research Articles

Morbidity and mortality among neonates with esophageal atresia and/or tracheoesophageal fistula in the United States.

Although rare, esophageal atresia (EA) and/or tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) can lead to severe morbidity and mortality. A known complication of EA and/or TEF repair is vocal fold motion impairment (VFMI). To characterize the prevalence of VFMI among repaired EA and/or TEF at a national level and to identify factors associated with in-patient mortality and common clinical endpoints in this population (tracheostomy and gastrostomy tube dependence). This is a retrospective cohort study of inpatient neonate admissions with EA and/or TEF in the 2016 Kids' Inpatient Database (KID). Patients with a history of EA and/or TEF were identified with ICD-10 codes. VFMI prevalence was assessed by observed frequencies and percentages. Clinical endpoints included gastrostomy (G-)tube placement, tracheostomy status, and inpatient mortality. Potential predictors of these three primary outcomes included cardiac anomalies, airway disorders, chromosomal anomalies, surgery within 24h of admission, prematurity, and low birthweight (LBW). Chi-squared analysis was performed between each parameter and the primary outcomes. Significant associations (p-value<0.05) were further assessed with multivariate logistic regression. Of 1062 neonates with history of EA and/or TEF, 24 (2.3%) had VFMI. Among this population, 27 patients underwent tracheostomies and 63 required G-tubes. There was a significantly higher likelihood of tracheostomy in patients with VFMI compared to patients without (16.7% versus 2.2%; p<0.01). After multivariate analysis, birthweight less than 1.5kg (BW<1.5kg; OR=2.5, 95% CI: 1.03-6.10), extreme prematurity (OR=7.5, 95% CI: 2.00-28.07), cardiac anomalies (OR=1.8, 95% CI: 1.01-3.04) and chromosomal anomalies (OR=4.2, 95% CI: 2.39-7.44) were significantly associated with in-hospital mortality. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD; OR=4.7, 95% CI: 1.73-12.78) and BW<1.5kg (OR=2.4, 95% CI: 1.05-5.49) were significant predictors for G-tube status. For tracheostomy, BPD (OR=15.8, 95% CI: 4.70-52.83) and subglottic stenosis (SS, OR=11.2, 95% CI: 1.85-68.02) remained significant predictors after multivariate regression. The national prevalence of VFMI among neonates following EA and/or TEF repair was 2.3% and was associated with an increased likelihood of tracheostomy in the KID 2016. Significant predictors of in-hospital mortality were cardiac anomalies, chromosomal anomalies, extreme prematurity, and BW<1.5kg. BPD and SS were significant predictors of tracheostomy, and BPD and BW<1.5kg were significant predictors for G-tube requirements.

Screening for Vocal Fold Movement Impairment in Children Undergoing Esophageal and Airway Surgery.

Children undergoing cervical and/or thoracic operations are at risk for recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, resulting in vocal fold movement impairment (VFMI). Screening for VFMI is often reserved for symptomatic patients. Identify the prevalence of VFMI in screened preoperative patients prior to an at-risk operation to evaluate the value of screening all patients at-risk for VFMI, regardless of symptoms. A single center, retrospective review of all patients undergoing a preoperative flexible nasolaryngoscopy between 2017 and 2021, examining the presence of VFMI and associated symptoms. We evaluated 297 patients with a median (IQR) age of 18 (7.8, 56.3) months and a weight of 11.3 (7.8, 17.7) kilograms. Most had a history of esophageal atresia (EA, 60%), and a prior at-risk cervical or thoracic operation (73%). Overall, 72 (24%) patients presented with VFMI (51% left, 26% right, and 22% bilateral). Of patients with VFMI, 47% did not exhibit the classic symptoms (stridor, dysphonia, and aspiration) of VFMI. Dysphonia was the most prevalent classic VFMI symptom, yet only present in 18 (25%) patients. Patients presenting with a history of at-risk surgery (OR 2.3, 95%CI 1.1, 4.8, p= 0.03), presence of a tracheostomy (OR 3.1, 95%CI 1.0, 10.0, p= 0.04), or presence of a surgical feeding tube (OR 3.1, 95%CI 1.6, 6.2, p= 0.001) were more likely to present with VFMI. Routine screening for VFMI should be considered in all at-risk patients, regardless of symptoms or prior operations, particularly in those with a history of an at-risk surgery, presence of tracheostomy, or a surgical feeding tube. 3 Laryngoscope, 133:3564-3570, 2023.

Cholecysto-hepatic duct serving as the only drainage pathway of bile from the intrahepatic to the extrahepatic biliary system in an infant: a case report

BackgroundCholecystohepatic duct is a rare anomaly of the biliary system which involves drainage of bile into the gallbladder which may be associated with agenesis of the common hepatic duct or common bile duct.Case presentationA 2.5-month-old infant presented to our emergency department with icterus. He had a history of esophageal atresia and imperforate anus which had been treated surgically by thoracotomy, esophagostomy, gastrostomy and colostomy placement. Following imaging studies by ultrasound and MRCP, the diagnosis of common hepatic duct agenesis was made. Cholecystohepatic duct was present as the solitary drainage pathway of bile from the intrahepatic to extrahepatic biliary system.ConclusionsCholecystohepatic ducts need a high index of suspicion to be diagnosed on preoperative hepatobiliary imaging. As they may be asymptomatic, they are predisposed to iatrogenic injury during hepatobiliary surgeries.

Initial Esophageal Anastomosis Diameter Predicts Treatment Outcomes in Esophageal Atresia Patients With a High Risk for Stricture Development.

Background and Aims: Children with esophageal atresia (EA) who undergo surgical repair are at risk for anastomotic stricture, which may need multiple dilations or surgical resection if the stricture proves refractory to endoscopic therapy. To date, no studies have assessed the predictive value of anastomotic diameter on long-term treatment outcomes. Our aim was to evaluate the relationship between anastomotic diameter in the early postoperative period and need for frequent dilations and stricture resection within 1 year of surgical repair.Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed of patients who had EA repair or stricture resection (SR). Medical records were reviewed to evaluate the diameter of the anastomosis at the first endoscopy after surgery, number and timing of dilations needed to treat the anastomotic stricture, and need for stricture resection. A generalized estimating equations (GEE) modeling with a logit link and binomial family was done to analyze the relationship between initial endoscopic anastomosis diameter and the outcome of needing a stricture resection. Median regression was implemented to estimate the association between number of dilations needed based on initial diameter.Results: A total of 121 patients (56 females) with a history of EA (64% long-gap EA) were identified who either underwent Foker repair at 46% or stricture resection with end-to-end esophageal anastomosis at 54%. The first endoscopy occurred a median of 22 days after surgery. Among all cases, a narrower anastomoses were more likely to need stricture resection with an OR of 12.9 (95% CI, 3.52, 47; p < 0.001) in patients with an initial diameter of <3 mm. The number of dilations that patients underwent also decreased as anastomotic diameter increased. This observation showed a significant difference when comparing all diameter categories when looking at all surgeries taken as a whole (p < 0.008).Conclusion: Initial anastomotic diameter as assessed via endoscopy performed after high-risk EA repair predicts which patients will require more esophageal dilations as well as the likelihood for stricture resection. This data may serve to stratify patients into different endoscopic treatment plans.

Evolution, lessons learned, and contemporary outcomes of esophageal replacement with jejunum for children

BackgroundThe jejunal interposition is our preferred esophageal replacement route when the native esophagus cannot be reconstructed. We report the evolution of our approach and outcomes. MethodsThe study was a single-center retrospective review of children undergoing jejunal interposition for esophageal replacement. Outcomes were compared between historical (2010–2015) and contemporary cohorts (2016–2019). ResultsFifty-five patients, 58% male, median age 4 years (interquartile range 2.4–8.3), with history of esophageal atresia (87%), caustic (9%) or peptic (4%) injury, underwent a jejunal interposition (historical cohort n = 14; contemporary cohort n = 41). Duration of intubation (11 vs 6 days; P = .01), intensive care unit (22 vs 13 days; P = .03), and hospital stay (50 vs 27 days; P = .004) were shorter in the contemporary cohort. Anastomotic leaks (7% vs 5%; P = .78), anastomotic stricture resection (7% vs 10%; P = .74), and need for reoperation (57% vs 46%; P = .48) were similar between cohorts. Most reoperations were elective conduit revisions. Microvascular augmentation, used in 70% of cases, was associated with 0% anastomotic leaks vs 18% without augmentation; P = .007. With median follow-up of 1.9 years (interquartile range 1.1, 3.8), 78% of patients are predominantly orally fed. Those with preoperative oral intake were more likely to achieve consistent postoperative oral intake (87.5% vs 64%; P = .04). ConclusionWe have made continuous improvements in our management of patients undergoing a jejunal interposition. Of these, microvascular augmentation was associated with no anastomotic leaks. Despite its complexity and potential need for conduit revision, the jejunal interposition remains our preferred esophageal replacement, given its excellent long-term functional outcomes in these complex children who have often undergone multiple procedures before the jejunal interposition.

Nutritional Status in Adolescents with Esophageal Atresia

To examine factors that may affect nutritional status in adolescents with esophageal atresia. Anthropometric measurements, blood samples, pH measuring, mapping of dysphagia with a modified Easting Assessment Test questionnaire, 4-day dietary record, and a semistructured interview about eating habits and nutrition counseling were performed in a cross-sectional cohort of adolescents with esophageal atresia. Out of 102 eligible patients, 68 (67%) participated. The median height-for-age Z score was -0.6 (-4.6 to 1.8). Ten (15%) were classified as stunted (height-for-age Z score <-2). Fourteen (21%) were overweight. More than two-thirds reported symptoms of dysphagia (Easting Assessment Test score ≥3) and avoided specific foods. Forty-eight (71%) completed the 4-day dietary record, which showed daily intake of energy below age-appropriate recommendations. One-third reported an energy intake below their estimated basal metabolic rate. Only 24% had received counselling from a dietitian. Adolescents with a history of esophageal atresia have growth below reference values and energy intake below recommendations. Energy intake and its relation to stunting needs to be further studied in patients with esophageal atresia.

Gastric heterotopic pancreas in children: A prospective endoscopic study

PurposeTo document the prevalence and variable appearance of gastric heterotopic pancreas (HP) in children undergoing upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy. MethodsA prospective 4-year study of children undergoing flexible upper GI endoscopy in a single institution. ResultsA total of 607 upper GI endoscopies were performed in 478 pediatric patients during the 4-year period. Eleven children (6 girls, 5 boys) aged 2.9 to 16.9 years had endoscopic features typical of gastric HP. All but one lesion was located in the gastric antrum and most appeared as an umbilicated submucosal nodule measuring 1–2 cm in diameter. Five of 13 children with repaired esophageal atresia (EA) and two of nine children with trisomy 21 had gastric HP. The prevalence of endoscopically visualized gastric HP in children without a history of EA or trisomy 21 was 1.1%. ConclusionsGastric HP is present in about 1% of pediatric upper GI endoscopies. It is significantly more common in patients with EA and may also be associated with trisomy 21. Gastric HP typically appears as a single 1–2 cm antral submucosal nodule, usually with a central pit. Recognition of this lesion is important to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. Level of EvidenceLevel II (diagnostic).

Great vessel anomalies and their impact on the surgical treatment of tracheobronchomalacia

BackgroundTracheobronchial compression (TBC) from great vessel anomalies (GVA) can contribute to tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) symptoms. The frequency, impact on symptoms and optimal management of GVA in these patients, with or without a history of esophageal atresia (EA), are still unclear. Study designPatients who underwent surgery for TBM/ TBC between 2001 and 2017 were reviewed. Demographics, type of GVA, and operative interventions were collected. The frequency and treatment modalities of GVA between EA and non-EA patients were compared. ResultsOverall, 209 patients met criteria; 120 (57.4%) patients had at least one GVA, including double aortic arches (n = 4, 1.9%), right aortic arches (n = 14, 6.7%), aberrant right subclavian arteries (n = 15, 7.2%), and innominate artery compression (n = 71, 34.0%). Non-EA patients were more likely to have surgery later in life (29.5 months versus 16 months, p = 0.0002), double aortic arch (p = 0.0174), right aortic arch (p < 0.0001), and undergo vascular reconstruction concurrently with their airway procedure (25% vs 8.4%, p = 0.002). Vessel reconstruction was performed in 25 patients; six required cardiac bypass. ConclusionThe frequency of GVA in patients with symptomatic airway collapse is substantial. Multidisciplinary evaluation is imperative for operative planning as many require complex reconstruction and collaboration with cardiac surgery, particularly patients without a history of EA. Level of evidenceLevel III.

DOZ047.100: Impact of fundoplication on pH-MII tracings in pediatric patients with esophageal atresia

Abstract Introduction Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common long-term complication in esophageal atresia (EA) patients. Fundoplication in EA is controversial but may be an option in those with maximum GER therapy failure, acute life-threatening event, failure to thrive, persistent esophagitis, and recurrent anastomotic stenosis. Aim The aim of this study was to compare GERD characteristics according pH-MII parameters in EA patients with and without fundoplication. Materials and Methods Retrospective review of pH-MII tracings performed at a Gastroenterology Unit between 2011 and 2018 was carried out. Inclusion criteria were children under 18 years with history of EA, with and without fundoplication, with both pH-MII and endoscopy performed, histology of esophageal biopsies, and off antireflux medications at the moment of examination. GER therapy failure was the indication for surgery. The total number of reflux episodes (acid, nonacidic), bolus and acid clearance time (ACT), and baseline values in distal channels (5–6) were evaluated. Group 1 (G1): patients with EA and fundoplication. Group 2 (G2): patients with EA without fundoplication. T-test was performed to compare results between G1 and G2. Results Fifteen tracings in EA patients were evaluated. Out of 15, 8 (53%) underwent fundoplication (G1), median age 7.4 years, 87.5% EA type C, 12.5% type A (long gap). Esophagitis was observed in 100% postfundoplication: 2 macroscopic, 1 eosinophilic, 5 microscopic esophagitis. Out of 15, 7 (47%) were EA without fundoplication (G2), median age 3.25 years, 57% EA type C, 43% type A–B. Esophagitis was observed in 85% in G2, all of them microscopic. No statistical differences were observed in pH-MII parameters between both groups. Number of refluxes, ACT, and distal channels (ch-6) were pathological in both groups. Nevertheless better acid clearance and more mucosal damage were observed in G1. Conclusion In this pediatric series of EA patients, pH-MII data show persistence of GERD even postfundoplication. This observation could be due to severe esophageal dismotility. Even asymptomatic EA patients should undergo monitoring of GER with pH-MII and endoscopy.

DOZ047.105: Minimally invasive surgical approach for posterior tracheobronchopexy to treat severe tracheobronchomalacia

Abstract Purpose Posterior tracheobronchopexy directly addresses membranous airway intrusion in severe tracheobronchomalacia (TBM). Our experience of posterior tracheobronchopexy through an open approach in a large series of patients has been previously reported by us. This study aimed to review lessons learned from our initial series of posterior tracheobronchopexy through a minimally invasive surgical approach. Methods A retrospective review of all patients with symptomatic TBM who underwent video-assisted or robot video-assisted thoracoscopic posterior tracheobronchopexy between October 2016 and January 2019 was carried out. Results Fourteen patients underwent video-assisted (n = 4) or robotic video-assisted (n = 10) thoracoscopic posterior tracheobronchopexy (age range: 8 months–19 years). Two patients had a history of esophageal atresia (type C) repair; none of the other patients had undergone prior operations. Two patients required open conversion to achieve the desired precision of suture placement. Operative times ranged from 4.5 to 15 hours, depending on the additional procedures performed. The intraoperative bronchoscopic evaluation demonstrated marked improvement in airway patency of all patients at the conclusion of each case. Patients were hospitalized 2 to 7 days, with 0 to 4 days for ICU observation. One patient with bronchopulmonary dysplasia and diffuse TBM, including segmental bronchi, required longer hospitalization and prolonged mechanical ventilation support. Follow-up after surgery ranged from 1 to 27 months. Three patients required subsequent anterior aortopexy and tracheopexy. In these three cases, dynamic tracheobronchoscopy showed that posterior tracheopexy remained intact; nonetheless, anterior airway support was still required to prevent dynamic anterior airway collapse. Conclusions The thoracoscopic approach for posterior tracheobronchopexy, while challenging, can be applied in children with severe TBM. As experience is gained, more complicated procedures and reoperative cases are possible. The simultaneous use of flexible bronchoscopy is mandatory to confirm precision by providing luminal visualization during suture placement. Thoracoscopic surgery with robotic assistance can eliminate some technical limitations of the video-assisted approach by providing an easier platform for very complicated suturing angles.

DOZ047.96: Esophageal food impaction presenting as life-threatening airway obstruction in children with esophageal atresia

Abstract Objective An esophageal foreign body rarely presents as an apparent life-threatening event. However, in children with esophageal atresia, strictures and dysmotility can lead to severe food impactions. Given the underlying anatomy of children with esophageal atresia, a unique risk of severe impaction with resultant airway obstruction is possible. This study reports a case of a child in respiratory distress presenting after a choking event where endoscopy revealed near total tracheal compression from esophageal food impaction. Method Case discussion and review of literature are undertaken. Result A 3-year-old boy with trisomy 21 and history of esophageal atresia who had previously undergone successful repair was transported by helicopter after a choking episode. He was witnessed to have cough followed by apnea, cyanosis, and unresponsiveness, for which he underwent the Heimlich maneuver and required chest compressions for a respiratory arrest. He was immediately taken to the operating room for endoscopy with planned foreign body removal. Rigid bronchoscopy noted near complete obstruction of the airway from posterior tracheal wall compression with no airway foreign body. The airway was secured and a combination of rigid and flexible esophagoscopy subsequently extracted a large bolus of chicken. He was observed in the intensive care unit with no further respiratory event after extubation. Conclusion Esophageal dysmotility and strictures are common in children with esophageal atresia who have undergone repair. Mild airway symptoms are common in children with an esophageal foreign body; however, in children with esophageal atresia a high index of suspicion of an esophageal foreign body is requisite in the setting of acute airway obstruction.

Impact of Esophageal Atresia on the Success of Fundoplication for Gastroesophageal Reflux

Fundoplication is commonly performed in patients with a history of esophageal atresia (EA), however, the success of this surgery is reduced, as reflected by an increased rate of redo fundoplication. We aimed to determine whether EA impacts the prevalence of fundoplication, its timing, and performance of a redo operation. A single-center, retrospective review of all patients undergoing fundoplication over a 20-year period (1994-2013) was performed. Redo fundoplication was used as a surrogate for surgical failure. A total of 767 patients (patients with EA 85, those who did not have EA 682) underwent fundoplication during the study period. Median age (months) at primary fundoplication was lower in patients with EA (7.2 vs those who did not have EA 23.3; P < .001). Redo fundoplication rates between groups were not significantly different (EA 11/85 vs 53/682; P = .14). Median time (months) between primary and redo fundoplication was greater in patients with EA (36.2 vs 11.7; P = .03). Contrary to popular belief, the incidence of redo fundoplication was not significantly increased in patients with a history of EA. However, patients with EA underwent fundoplication at younger ages, which may be related to early life-threatening events in these patients. These results inform perioperative counseling, and highlight the importance of sustained surgical follow-up in patients with EA.

Congenital Split of Pancreatic Body Associated With Small Pseudocyst in a Patient With History of Esophageal Atresia and Recurrent Pancreatitis

Congenital Split of Pancreatic Body Associated With Small Pseudocyst in a Patient With History of Esophageal Atresia and Recurrent Pancreatitis

Erratum: Transition of Patients with Esophageal Atresia to Adult Care: Results of a Transition-Specific Education Program.

Aim of the Study A history of esophageal atresia (EA) may result in chronic morbidity. The transition of patients from pediatric to adult care has been recognized as an important factor to maintain disease-specific follow-up and prevent exacerbation of chronic disease. Patient education is recognized as a necessary part of transition programs for children with chronic diseases. Structured education programs for patients with EA have not yet been developed. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a transition-specific educational program in adolescents with a history of EA. Methods An ethical approval was obtained. Patients with a history of EA (age 14–21 years) and their parents were invited to participate in a 2-day transition-specific educational program. Overall, 29 patients and 25 parents were recruited out of whom 10/7 were allocated to the intervention group (program) and 19/18 to the control group (no program). Subjective satisfaction (ZUF-8) and expected effects of the program on the future course of the disease, transition-specific knowledge (standardized questionnaire addressing organizational and health-related aspects of transition), health-related quality of life (DISABKIDS), and confidence for self-management (Patient Activation Measure-13) were measured with appropriate psychological instruments. Nonparametric tests were used for statistical analysis. Main Results Subjects participating were highly satisfied with the program (patients 26/32 points, parents 25/32; ZUF-8). Overall, 90% of the patients and 67% of the parents anticipated a positive effect on the future course of the disease. Patient's transition-specific knowledge was low before the program (36% correct answers). It improved by 18% after the intervention (56% correct answers; p = 0.004). It did not change in the control group (54 vs. 52%; n.s.). Parent's transition-specific knowledge did not change after the intervention (66 vs. 67% correct answers; ns). In patients, there were no detectable effects on health-related quality of life (79.7 intervention vs. 81.5 controls; DISABKIDS general score) or self-management (44.4 intervention vs. 41.4 controls; PAM-13). Conclusions We identified a deficit of transition-specific knowledge in adolescents with a history of EA. These patients benefit from a transition-specific education program. Thus, the transition to adult care may be facilitated resulting in an improved long-term care of patients with EA.

From Vogt to Haight and Holt to now: the history of esophageal atresia over the last century.

Esophageal atresia was first classified by the Boston Children's Hospital radiologist Edward Vogt in 1929 and has been a major challenge in its characterization and management ever since. It defied all attempts at repair until University of Michigan thoracic surgeon Cameron Haight's first successful fistula ligation and primary esophageal anastomosis in 1941. Haight worked with the pediatric radiologist John Holt. This historical review describes advances in pre- and postnatal diagnosis.

Thoracoscopic aortopexy for tracheomalacia.

Tracheomalacia is a condition that may result in acute life-threatening events. Aortopexy has become a generally accepted mode of treatment, although the impact of a thoracotomy is considerable. With the advent of minimal invasive surgery the impact of such a procedure may be greatly reduced. This study evaluates the outcome of thoracoscopic aortopexy for tracheomalacia. Retrospective analysis of a database containing all patients with thoracoscopic aortopexy. Based on symptomatology, on indication 24 h pH study and/or rigid tracheo-bronchoscopy were carried out to confirm the diagnosis. A three-trocar technique was used on the left side together with intra-operative flexible tracheoscopy through the tube. Follow-up continued for the duration of the study. Between January 2002 and December 2012, 16 patients presented with severe tracheomalacia. Fourteen of them had a history of esophageal atresia. Age at time of aortopexy varied from 2 weeks to 12 months. All procedures were performed thoracoscopically without intra-operative complications. In five children, there was a recurrence of symptoms within 2-4 weeks for which a re-thoracoscopic aortopexy was carried out successfully. With a follow-up of 6 months to 10 years all patients are thriving and are without incidents. This is the largest single-center series of thoracoscopic aortopexy for tracheomalacia so far. All procedures were completed successfully without complications. Although recurrences occur, as in open surgery, the ultimate results are satisfactory. In an era of minimal invasive surgery the thoracoscopic approach is feasible and safe, even in redo-procedures.

Esophageal atresia and hypertrofic pyloric stenosis: An association to consider

Esophageal atresia (EA) with distal tracheosophageal fistula (TEF) develops hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS) during the late postoperative period with a described prevalence of 1%-10%.The aim of this retrospective study is to show our experience in this association and to report two specific cases. Of 61 patients with EA treated in our institution, 2 developed HPS. Both cases underwent a Ramstedt extramucosal pyloromyotomy. Currently, patients are asymptomatic. Our frequency (3.3%) is similar to other publications, about 1%-10%. It is important to be aware of this association in a patient with a history of EA and recurrent vomiting in the late postoperative period. The etiology of this association should be investigated.

A “tuft” procedure

A 53-year-old man presented with dysphagia for solid food. He had a history of esophageal atresia that had required repair with a colonic interposition as a child. In 2008, he had presented with dysphagia, dyspnea, and a bulge in his neck. Computed tomography (CT) scanning showed herniation of the colonic conduit into his neck with ischemic changes. He had undergone emergency resection of the conduit and esophagogastric reconstruction, which was complicated by a tight anastomotic stricture that had been managed with esophageal dilation and stenting for 3 years. Unfortunately, a large anterior esophagocutaneous fistula had developed in his chest wall, which required repair in 2012 with a pectoralis major musculocutaneous skin flap to reconstruct his cervical esophagus. He was subsequently referred for endoscopy because of recurrence of his dysphagia.

Barrett Esophagus and Esophagojejunal Anastomotic Stenosis as Complications of Esophagogastric Disconnection in Children With Esophageal Atresia

Total esophagogastric disconnection (TED) is an alternative surgical procedure in resistant gastroesophageal reflux disease. We report 2 severe, not yet described long-term complications of TED occurring in 4 children with a history of esophageal atresia. Three children presented with stenosis of the esophagojejunal anastomosis 5 months to 9 years after TED, requiring repeated dilations associated with mitomycin C application in one of them. Barrett esophagus was observed in 3 children 8 to 9 years after TED. Careful long-term clinical and endoscopic follow-up of children who underwent TED is required.

Eosinophilic esophagitis after esophageal atresia: is there an association? Case presentation and literature review

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a relatively new condition resulting in dysphagia or symptoms resembling gastroesophageal reflux disease, symptoms that also are common in patients with a history of esophageal atresia. We present 2 patients with persistent dysphagia after repair of esophageal atresia that was caused by EoE. Although the exact etiology and pathogenesis of EoE remain unclear, it is now generally accepted that it is the result of a T-helper cell 2–type immune response with a crucial role for the eosinophil-specific chemotaxis factor eotaxin 3 and eosinophils. Because there are genetic similarities between esophageal atresia and EoE, we speculate that patients with esophageal atresia are at increased risk for developing EoE.