Recurrent Tracheoesophageal Fistula Research Articles

Endoscopic Repair of Refractory Tracheoesophageal Fistula with a Cardiac Septal Occluder Device in a 12 Years-Old Patient

Purpose: Esophageal atresia (EA) and tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) are rare anomalies in neonates that must be surgically repaired by esophageal reconstruction with or without ligation of the fistula. Recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula (rTEF) occurs in 3-15% of primary surgical repairs in esophageal atresia; it is associated with recurrent hospital admissions and up to 27% short term mortality. Dependable reparation very often proves difficult by standard surgical techniques. Using oesophageal fully covered self-expandable metal stents in adult patients yields a <50% efficacy and other endoscopic techniques such as occlusion by clips or glue show no better results. A minimally invasive alternative is the use of vascular plug septal occluders. We report the efficacy of endoscopic placement of a cardiac septal occluder (CSO) in a paediatric patient. Clinical case: A 12-year-old female with recurrent (rTEF) and refractory tracheoesophageal fistula (refTEF) was subjected to an refTEF closure procedure via endoscopic placement of a cardiac septal occlusion device. Conclusion: Debate regarding the gold standard of rTEF treatment closure a hot debate but flexible endoscopy is an accepted alternative. This report describes the successful fixing of a refTEF using a cardiac septal occluder. After four weeks follow up, no re-incidence of the tracheoesophageal fistula was detected. The results advocate for the endoscopic closure of refractory tracheoesophageal fistula with cardiac occluders in children thus establishing a promising therapeutical alternative in refTEF in paediatric population patients.

Endoscopic repair of tracheoesophageal fistulas: A contemporary multi-institutional case series and literature review

ObjectivesRecurrent and primary tracheoesophageal fistulas (TEFs) are a challenging surgical pathology to treat, as standard open surgical approaches are associated with high morbidity and mortality. As such, endoscopic modalities have gained interest as an alluring alternative, yet variable success rates have been reported in the literature. The aim of this study was to provide a contemporary update of the literature and describe our institutional experience with the bronchoscopic obliteration of recurrent and primary TEFs. MethodsRetrospective chart review of all pediatric patients having undergone endoscopic TEF repair at two pediatric academic centers in Montreal, Canada and Lille, France between January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2020. Results28 patients with TEFs (20 recurrent, 8 primary) underwent a total of 48 endoscopic procedures. TEF repair was performed under endoscopic guidance using various combinations of techniques, including fistula de-epithelialization (endoscopic brush, thulium laser, trichloroacetic acid-soaked pledgets or electrocautery), tissue adhesives, submucosal augmentation, esophageal clip and stenting. Successful closure was achieved in 16 patients (57 %), while 12 (43 %) required eventual open or thoracoscopic repair. The mean number of endoscopic procedures was 1.7. There were no major treatment-related complications such as pneumothorax, mediastinitis or death (mean follow-up 50.8 months). ConclusionsEndoscopic repair of recurrent or primary TEFs is a valuable component of our therapeutic armamentarium and may contribute to decreased surgical morbidity in this complex patient population. Families should be counselled that endoscopic results may be more modest than with open or thoracoscopic approaches, and multiple procedures may be required.

Commentary on Endoscopic Chemocauterization with Trichloroacetic Acid for Congenital or Recurrent Tracheoesophageal Fistula in Children with Esophageal Atresia: Experience from a Tertiary Center

Commentary on Endoscopic Chemocauterization with Trichloroacetic Acid for Congenital or Recurrent Tracheoesophageal Fistula in Children with Esophageal Atresia: Experience from a Tertiary Center

Novel Left-Sided Thoracoscopic Approach to Recurrent Tracheoesophageal Fistula and Post-Fistula Tracheal Diverticula

Background: Recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula (RTEF) is usually a consequence of leakage or other complications after esophageal atresia repair performed through right-sided access. This results in extensive intrapleural adhesions, and open redo surgery poses a challenge. Alternatively, endoscopic endotracheal fistula obliteration usually requires repetitive procedures, and its success rate varies significantly between centers. We present a novel approach to recurrent fistulas. The innovation is in reaching the fistula through the virgin field via left-sided three-port thoracoscopy instead of classical right-sided thoracotomy. Methods: This is a presentation of a new operative technique based on a retrospective case series of patients operated on at our department between 2016 and 2023. Results: Eight patients after esophageal atresia repair (six with RTEF and two with post-fistula tracheal diverticula) were successfully treated with left-sided thoracoscopy. There were no conversions. One patient required rethoracoscopy for chylothorax. Another one, after RTEF closure, underwent multiple endoscopic obliterations of subsequent tracheal diverticulum. No other major complications nor re-recurrences were noted. Conclusions: Left-sided thoracoscopy in redo esophageal atresia has the advantage of a “virgin” operative field and grants feasible access to the RTEF or tracheal diverticulum. We believe that this approach is worth further exploration because it combines minimal invasiveness with high effectiveness without all the consequences of a thoracotomy.

Double-way endoscopic management for the treatment of recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula: A novel approach for a possible solution of the problem?

BackgroundEsophageal atresia (EA) is the most common congenital anomaly affecting the esophagus, and recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula (rTEF) is one of its most serious complications, usually occurring after primary surgical closure in 3–14 % of patients. Endoscopic management involving the topical application of 50 % trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and clipping systems has favorable results and a low incidence of complications. However, it has been reported that multiple applications are necessary to achieve adequate closure. MethodsThis therapeutic study describes a preliminary 5-step double endoscopic approach involving topical application of 50 % TCA and clips such as the OTS/OVESCO System. ResultsThe rTEF was completely closed in three patients (n = 3); in 2/3 of patients, the OTS/OVESCO system was used. Postoperative esophagogram confirmed the obliteration of the defect, and no patient presented with complications during the 3-year follow-up, with complete resolution of respiratory symptoms. ConclusionsThis preliminary study suggests that the 5-step dual endoscopic approach for closure of the rTEF is effective for both symptom resolution and complete closure of the tracheoesophageal communication.

Endoscopic Chemocauterization with Trichloroacetic Acid for Congenital or Recurrent Tracheoesophageal Fistula in Children with Esophageal Atresia: Experience from a Tertiary Center

BackgroundRecurrent tracheoesophageal fistula (rTEF) is a well-known complication after surgery of EA, occurring in roughly 3–10% of the patients. Recent studies have highlighted safety and efficacy of endoscopic management of recurrent TEF. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of chemocauterization with trichloroacetic acid (TCA) in rTEF and congenital tracheoesophageal fistula (cTEF). MethodsRetrospective chart review of consecutive patients with recurrent or congenital TEF who underwent endoscopic chemo-cauterization between 2018 and 2022 at a tertiary center. Children diagnosed with TEF who underwent primary or secondary endoscopic treatment were included. Median follow up time was 19 months for rTEF and 33 months for cTEF. ResultsDuring the study period, 18 patients were treated endoscopically by chemocatuerization with TCA at our institution. Treatment of recurrent TEF was successful in 13 of 14 patients (93%) Treatment of congenital TEF was successful in 2 of 4 patients (50%). In 14 patients, closure was seen after 1–2 treatments. There were no serious adverse reactions or complications to the endoscopic treatment of TEF. ConclusionEndoscopic chemocauterization is a minimal invasive technique with low morbidity and high success rate and may be considered as primary treatment for recurrent TEF. Level of evidenceIII.

Isolated tracheo-esophageal fistula in children: Analysis of a large multicentric series and proposal of a comprehensive treatment algorithm

BackgroundIsolated tracheo-esophageal fistulas (TEF) are rare and challenging, possibly leading to severe complications. We evaluated the outcomes in a large series of patients treated in 9 referral Centers for airway surgery, and suggested an ideal management algorithm. MethodsA multicentric retrospective study on TEF was performed. Results186 cases were collected. Among 101 patients with recurrent TEF after EA repair, 1 was treated successfully with thoracoscopy, 23 with open surgery with TEF division and tissue interposition, with 15 complete resolution (65 %), 2 TEF recurrence (9 %) and 6 other complications (26 %), and 77 received TCA endoscopic cauterization, with complete resolution in 61 (79 %). Among 54 patients with congenital H-type fistula, 1 received conservative treatment with resolution; 4 underwent thoracoscopy (50 % resolution); 6 had endoscopic cauterization (33 % resolution); 44 received open surgery, with 43 (98 %) successes. In the last group, the majority of TEF was ligated and divided with tissue interposition. Among 26 post-traumatic fistulas (mechanical trauma, battery or caustic ingestion), 6 patients received endoscopic procedure and 5 of them (83 %) reached complete resolution. The other 19 received open surgery (trans-tracheal direct FTE closure with tracheal resection), and 12 had complete resolution (63 %). Two patients eventually died and complication rate was 23 %. Other 5 cases (3 Bronchial-Esophageal Fistulas and 2 TEF after cleft repair) were treated endoscopically or with open approach. ConclusionEndoscopic cauterization can be the preferred treatment for recurrent TEF after EA, while for the congenital H-type and post-traumatic TEF the open approach remains our first choice.

Outcome of primary posterior tracheopexy in thoracoscopically repaired esophageal atresia neonates with tracheomalacia; single center's experience

BackgroundTracheomalacia frequently develops in esophageal atresia patients (EA) especially in those with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). Conservative management has been the standard treatment; however, it was reported that delay in management could result in chronic lung conditions. Thus, early surgical interventions have been recently recommended. Patients and MethodsWe enrolled patients presented with type-C esophageal atresia, with concomitant moderate to severe tracheomalacia, who had their thoracoscopic intervention done during the study period 2019–2022. Early and intermediate- term outcomes were studied and compared to another cohort with mild or no tracheomalacia. ResultsDuring the allocated study period, 24 patients met the inclusion criteria for tracheopexy, but only 17 were followed up due to early demise of the other seven. During the follow-up period, 7/17 patients developed respiratory symptoms, which were attributed to esophageal stricture in 5 patients, recurrent TEF in 2 patients and one of them had residual tracheomalacia in addition to the developed recurrent TEF. The outcomes of the enrolled patients for tracheopexy were similar to those with no or mild tracheomalacia. ConclusionsPrimary posterior tracheopexy during the primary repair might be considered a safe and feasible option not only to alleviate respiratory symptoms secondary to tracheomalacia in EA patients, but also to decline the need of further surgical interventions. However, more comprehensive studies with long-term follow-ups are mandatory.

Endoscopic closure of recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula using argon plasma coagulation: A case report

Recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula (RTEF) after surgical repair of esophageal atresia remains a serious complication. Open surgical repair for RTEF is associated with high levels of postoperative morbidity, mortality and repeat recurrence. Although endoscopic management has been expected to be an alternative to re-surgery, the optimal endoscopic management of RTEF remains to be determined. This report describes a successful experience of argon plasma coagulation (APC) for the closure of an intractable RTEF. A newborn male diagnosed as having esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) underwent a primary surgical repair. At 17 months of age, an oral contrast study showed the recurrence of the TEF, and subsequently he underwent a second open surgery. However, a postoperative esophagogram revealed a second recurrence of the TEF. Then, endoscopic treatment options were considered and APC was employed to coagulate the fistula epithelium. At 31 months of age, APC followed by fibrin glue application was performed. By this procedure the RTEF could be occluded safely and successfully without any complications. APC is a simple, safe and effective procedure, and is therefore worth trying as a first attempt for the treatment of RTEF.

ARE LOW BIRTH WEIGHT AND MAJOR CONGENITAL HEART DISEASES CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR THORACOSCOPIC REPAIR OF ESOPHAGEAL ATRESIA WITH TRACHEOESOPHAGEAL FISTULA?

BACKGROUND Thoracoscopic repair of esophageal atresia (EA) with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is becoming an increasingly widespread technique; there is still controversy about its indication in certain patients. Our objective is to analyze if potential risk factors such as major congenital heart disease (CHD) or low birth weight are a limitation to this approach. METHODS Retrospective study (2017-2021) of patients with EA and distal TEF who underwent thoracoscopic repair were included. Patients with low birth weight <2000g or major congenital heart disease were compared to the rest. RESULTS Twenty-five patients underwent thoracoscopic surgery. Nine patients (36%) had major CHD. Five of them (20%) were low birth weight <2000g and only 8% presented both risk factors (2/25). There were no differences in terms of operative time, conversion rate, tolerance evaluated with gasometric parameters (pO2, pCO2, pH) or complications (anastomotic leak and stricture, both early or during follow-up) in patients with major CHD and LBW (1473 ± 319g vs 2664 ± 402g). One conversion to thoracotomy was performed in a baby weighing 1050 g due to anesthetic intolerance. There was no recurrence of TEF. One patient died at the age of 9 months, due to major uncorrectable heart disease. CONCLUSIONS Thoracoscopic repair of EA/TEF is feasible technique in patients with CHD or LBW, with similar results to other patients. The complexity of this technique warrants individualizing the indication in each case.

Endoscopic treatment in pediatric patients with recurrent and H-type tracheoesophageal fistulas - A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Endoscopic treatments for managing recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula (rTEF) and H-type TEF are being utilized lately; however, the preferred technique is yet to be determined. We aimed to systematically review existing publications on endoscopic treatment of rTEF and H-type TEF to analyze their success and complication rates. PRISMA guidelines were followed. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were comprehensively searched in accordance to a priori developed protocol, from 1975 until 2020. English, Spanish and German papers were included. Studies were independently screened and analyzed by two reviewers. 84 full texts were assessed for eligibility out of 581 screened studies, of these, 39 studies with 127 patients were eligible for inclusion (115 rTEF and 12H-type TEF). All included studies were cases reports or case series. Overall success rate was 45% with sealant injection, 87% with de-epithelialization and 80% with sealant injection and de-epithelialization combined. The mean number of required treatments for success was 1.9 (range 1-6). Mixed effect model meta-analysis of case series with n>1 showed that sealant injection had a significantly lower success rate of 50% (95% CI 1-99%, I2 72%) compared to de-epithelialization 90% (95% CI 72-99%, I2 27%), p=0.007 and the combination of both techniques 87% (95% CI 68-99%, I2 11%), p=0.02. Nine patients (7%) had transient respiratory distress. No mortalities reported. Endoscopic treatment for rTEF and H-type fistula is a minimally invasive technique with favorable outcome and considerably less morbidity compared to open surgery, suggesting it as a safe and effective first line treatment option. Repeated endoscopic treatment attempts can be expected to obtain complete closure. De-epithelization techniques with or without combined tissue adhesive injection had significantly better results than sealant injection techniques alone.

Endoscopic interventional therapies for tracheoesophageal fistulas in children: A systematic review.

An electronic literature search was performed using the keywords "tracheoesophageal fistula," "endoscopic," and "children" in the four major medical databases (Ovid, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science) right from inception to September 2022. All English language articles describing the endoscopic interventional therapies of TEF in children were reviewed. Two independent researchers screened eligible articles at the title and abstract level. Full texts of potentially relevant articles were then screened again, and reference lists were screened manually to identify additional studies. Relevant data were extracted and analyzed. A synthesis of the relevant data was presented in descriptive form because of the heterogeneity of the included articles. The Chi-Squared test was used with a significance level of 5% (P < 0.05). Among the 1,167 retrieved papers, a total of 46 studies describing 170 TEF patients with an age range of 0.3-175 months were included, including 11 cases of acquired tracheoesophageal fistula, 144 cases of recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula, and 15 cases of congenital tracheoesophageal fistula (H-type TEF). A total of 119 out of 170 fistulas were successfully blocked via endoscopic techniques with an overall success rate of 70.0%, while 48 fistulas failed to close by endoscopic interventions, following which the procedure was converted to open surgery. No obviously severe intraoperative/postoperative complications occurred during the follow-up period, but only a mild esophageal stricture was noticed in six patients and grade II tracheal stenosis in one patient. Two patients died from causes unrelated to endoscopic procedures, with a mortality rate of approximately 1.2%. A comparative assessment of different endoscopic interventional techniques for TEF that detected endotracheal stenting was performed in six patients and one fistula was successfully blocked (16.7%). De-epithelialization alone was performed in 65 patients and the fistula healed in 47 of them (72.3%), with the mean number of successful treatments required being 2.3 times. Chemical sealant injection was administered in 33 patients and success was achieved in 21 (63.6%). The average requirement for endoscopic procedures was 1.5 times. De-epithelialization, in combination with chemical sealant injection, was performed in 62 patients, achieving the highest success rate of 77.4% (48 patients). Other treatment methods were performed in four patients and successfully treatment outcomes were reported in two of them (50.0%). The mean number of successful treatments required was four times, and a treatment was converted to surgery in one patient (25.0%). An assessment of different TEF types showed that 9 out of 15 congenital TEFs, 7 out of 11 acquired TEFs, and 103 out of 144 recurrent TEFs were successfully occluded. A comparison of the success rate across multiple groups showed a significant difference with a score of P < 0.05, while there was no significant difference in the success rate of different TEF-type groups (P > 0.05). Endoscopic intervention is currently a preferred treatment modality for children with TEF because of its less-invasive nature, less complications, and high success rate. Among all interventional techniques, de-epithelialization, in combination with chemical sealant, has a higher success rate than other techniques. However, due to the limited number of cases reported for implementing many kinds of techniques, an ideal endoscopic interventional technique has yet to be devised, often necessitating more treatment applications and close follow-up.

Exploration of the thoracoscopic treatment of esophageal atresia under high-frequency ventilation.

Explore the feasibility and safety of thoracoscopy in the treatment of esophageal atresia under high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) mode. This was a single-center retrospective analysis. A total of 24 children were divided into the HFOV and the No-HFOV group. The demographic information, surgical results and relevant experience were analyzed. All patients in the HFOV group underwent thoracoscopic esophageal atreplasty with a mean operation duration of 165.8 ± 33.9 min. Two patients had postoperative anastomotic leakage, which was cured after conservative treatment. One child had a recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula, which was closed after endoscopic cauterization. The mean postoperative mechanical ventilation time was 8.83 ± 8.02 days. There was no return of anastomotic leakage or r-TEF after oral feeding. Furthermore, there was no significant difference between the NO-HFOV and the HFOV groups except for the operation time where the HFOV group was shorter than that of the NO-HFOV group. Thoracoscopic esophageal atresia anastomosis under HFOV ventilation is feasible for patients with severe pulmonary infection, heart malformation, such as patent ductus arteriosus, ventricular septal defect, and poor anesthesia tolerance, but the long-term prognosis still needs further study in a large sample size.

Distal Recurrent Tracheoesophageal Fistula after Repair of Esophageal Atresia-Incidence, Risk Factors, and Outcome.

The aim of this study was to assess incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of distal recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula (RTEF) after repair of esophageal atresia (EA). Ethical consent was obtained. Data collection was done by review of hospital records of 286 patients (268 in-house and 18 referred) who underwent repair of type C or D EA from 1980 to 2021. Spitz class, long-gap (tracheoesophageal fistula at carina), fundoplication, leakage, and stricture were assessed as RTEF risk factors. Outcome measures were long-term closure of RTEF, retainment of native esophagus, and survival. RTEF occurred in 23 patients (19 in-house) with type C (n = 22) or type D (n = 1) EA with median 4.4 (interquartile range [IQR]: 1.7-13) months after repair. Five patients had late RTEF 3.5 to 16 years after repair. Nineteen (7.3%) in-house patients developed RTEF. Presenting symptoms, age at diagnosis, and presence of anastomotic stricture (AS) are listed. No statistically significant risk factors were found, risk ratio of 0.5 to 2.7 (IQR: 0.1-8.7), p-value of 0.25 to 0.75. Detached closure clip and esophageal foreign body contributed to RTEF in two patients. Sixteen patients underwent rethoracotomy for closure of RTEF, 5 (22%) with AS eventually underwent esophageal reconstruction after a period with cervical esophagostomy. Two patients with late-manifested RTEFs underwent closure with laser cauterization. In 22 patients, treatment of RTEF succeeded, whereas 1 (4%) premature patient died of instant re-RTEF. RTEF had an incidence of 7% with diverse patterns of manifestation and predicting factors. Closure rate and patient survival were excellent, but RTEF with AS predicted loss of native esophagus.

Chronic Tracheoesophageal Fistula Successfully Treated Using an Amplatzer Closure Device Under Endoscopic Visualization

ABSTRACT In patients with severe comorbidities or those who are critically ill, chronic or recurrent tracheoesophageal fistulas may be successfully closed using an Amplatzer device. We present the case of a chronic tracheoesophageal fistula causing dysphagia and aspiration pneumonia, which was successfully repaired using an Amplatzer device.

S368 Chronic Tracheoesophageal Fistula Successfully Treated Using an Amplatzer Closure Device Under Endoscopic Visualization

Introduction: In tertiary care centers, where advanced endoscopic expertise is available, the placement of an Amplatzer septal occluder is practical and safe. This allows for potential fistula closure, especially in patients with severe comorbidities or in critical condition or those with chronic or recurrent tracheoesophageal fistulas (TEF). Case Description/Methods: A 72-year-old man with a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and well-differentiated esophageal adenocarcinoma who presented for dysphagia and cough. Social history was negative for smoking, smokeless tobacco, alcohol ingestion and illicit drug use. Home medications include famotidine. He had no known significant family history. The patient had undergone numerous esophagogastroduodenoscopies (EGD) since 2017 for recurrent strictures requiring TTS balloon dilations, intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injections and esophageal stenting complicated by formation of a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) at the anastomotic site. The TEF was initially treated with stenting 3 months prior to presentation. The patient underwent EGD and bronchoscopy with visualization of a 5 mm fistula. He was then evaluated by the surgery team for consideration of surgical repair, however the patient declined surgical intervention. Given the clinical condition of the patient with recurrent aspiration events, failed endoscopic management and refusal of surgical intervention, it was decided to remove the esophageal stent and attempt placement of an Amplatzer septal occluder. An 18 mm Amplatzer device (AD) was successfully placed with satisfactory closure of the TEF. Repeat endoscopy 5 months later, showed that the device had remained in the correct position and the patient remained asymptomatic following advancement of his diet. Discussion: Acquired TEF is a rare complication, the incidence in the US has yet to be reported. Amplatzer occluder devices, originally designed for transcatheter closure of cardiac defects, have shown promise in the treatment of TEFs. It is suggested that the placement of the AD induces granulation tissue formation around the device allowing for complete closure of the fistula without compromising airway patency. Upon review of current literature only one other case report was found where an AD was used for the management of refractory TEF. In the setting of large or difficult to manage TEFs and patients who are not surgical candidates, Amplatzer septal occluder devices can be used to successfully treat complicated TEFs. Watch the video at https://tinyurl.com/ACGAbstractS368Figure 1.: Amplatzer device deployed with successful tracheoesophageal fistula closure.

Pleural flaps in the treatment of recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula

A trachea-oesophageal fistula (TEF) is commonly observed in Oesophageal Atresia (EA). Surgical intervention is required to achieve continuity in the digestive tract. Recurrent trachea-oesophageal fistula (rTEF) is a common complication of EA Repair. This paper describes the feasibility of using pleura flaps to treat the mentioned complication. We present 3 cases encountered between 2019 and 2020 in our institution.

Indocyanine green fluorescence imaging localization-assisted thoracoscopy revision surgery after repair of esophageal atresia

Revision surgery for the complications after repair of esophageal atresia is often complex because of previous surgeries and chest infections and thus requires surgical expertise. This study describes surgical experiences with the use of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging localization-assisted thoracoscopy during revision surgery, including recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula (rTEF) (8 cases, one of which was esophageal-pulmonary fistula) and delayed esophageal closure (1 case). We performed fistula repair and esophageal reconstruction according to the indications of ICG. The application of this method avoids the excessive trauma caused by freeing the trachea and esophagus. Contrast imaging taken one week and one month after surgery indicated no spillover of the contrast agent from the esophagus, except in 1 case. Indocyanine green fluorescence imaging localization-assisted thoracoscopy is worth promoting for revision surgery after esophageal atresia repair.

Tracheoesophageal fistula after esophageal atresia repair: recurrent, missed or acquired

: Esophageal atresia (EA) is a common congenital anomaly of pediatric surgical practice. Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is defined as congenital fistulous connection between esophagus and airway. All newborns with EA need immediate surgical repair of this anomaly. As the survival has reached to 95%, the long-term consequences of TEF have become the focus of interest. The main complications of EA repair are classified as early complications including anastomotic leak, stricture, recurrent TEF (recTEF) and late complications including gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal dysmotility, tracheomalacia and respiratory disorders. TEFs seen after EA repair are the most challenging complication for both patient and the surgeon. These fistulas can occur after EA repair because of the recanalization of ligated original TEF called recTEF, a de novo fistula with different location called acquired TEF (acqTEF) or a second congenital fistula missed at the primary surgery called missed TEF (mTEF). Overall, incidence of fistula recurrence is between 5–10%. The well-described risk factors for TEF recurrences are inadequate ligation of original TEF, anastomotic complications including leak, stricture and ischemia, tracheal injuries at the primary repair, and juxtapositioning of esophageal and tracheal suture lines. The clinical presentation of all types of fistulas is similar. Thus, the diagnosis of all these fistulas is challenging. Even, all patients having coughing, chocking or recurrent respiratory tract infections after EA repair should be investigated for the presence of TEF recurrence. In addition, the management of each type of fistula requires different approaches and can be technically demanding for most cases. Although surgical management is mostly inevitable in the management of recTEF, medical observation may be a choice for the management of acqTEFs since there is a possibility of spontaneous healing. Despite the advanced surgical technique, the risk for secondary recurrences, increased morbidity and even mortality are still exists. Therefore, this review will focus on all of the aspects of TEFs seen after EA repair.

Suture approximation of esophageal atresia leads to esophageal recanalization

Esophageal atresia is a congenital pathology in 1:4000 live newborns, which can occur isolated, associated with tracheoesophageal fistula or long gap (>2 vertebral bodies); the surgical objective is the ligation of the fistula and the esophageal anastomosis in the same surgery. However, this may not be possible in all cases [1]. The staged approach initially begins with the ligation of the tracheoesophageal fistula and gastrostomy, and definitive surgery focuses on the esophageal anastomosis. It is performed when the patient presents adequate clinical and anatomical conditions. Spontaneous recanalization of esophageal atresia is rare. The exact mechanism by which it occurs is unknown. Gastric reflux, being in contact with the esophageal distal end, generates inflammation and erosion of the wall, producing communication between the esophageal segments. We propose approximating the proximal and distal esophageal segments utilizing sutures produces an inflammatory process due to a foreign body generating a fistulous tract between the two esophageal components and esophageal recanalization [2]. We present two cases of esophageal recanalization to describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches through imaging tests and endoscopy, contributing to the management of this unusual condition. • Esophageal atresia is a challenge; it presents variations in the location of the tracheoesophageal fistula and the length of the esophageal ends. It occurs isolated or associated with malformations. The pediatric surgeon must individualize treatment for each patient. • In all cases, extreme premature patients have hemodynamic alterations and fragile esophageal tissue, which do not allow performing a primary esophageal anastomosis. • Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic resource in patients with spontaneous esophageal recanalization or the presence of a recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula.