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Pediatric Surgery International

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01-09-2012 | Original Article

Delayed primary anastomosis for management of long-gap esophageal atresia: a meta-analysis of complications and long-term outcome

Authors: Florian Friedmacher, Prem Puri

Published in: Pediatric Surgery International | Issue 9/2012

Abstract

Purpose

Management of newborns with long-gap esophageal atresia (LGEA) remains a challenge for pediatric surgeons. Since spontaneous growth of the esophageal segments occurs without mechanical stretching, initial gastrostomy followed by delayed primary anastomosis (DPA) comprises treatment in most LGEA patients. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the complications and long-term outcome in patients with LGEA managed by DPA.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted for relevant articles published between 1981 and 2011, and a meta-analysis of complications and long-term outcome was performed.

Results

Forty-four articles presented data on 451 newborns with LGEA managed by DPA. Most common variants were pure LGEA (194/451) and LGEA with tracheoesophageal fistula (257/451). Initial gap lengths ranged from 1.9 to 7.0 cm. At the time of DPA, performed at a mean of 11.9 weeks (range 0.5–54.0), the gap had decreased to 0.5–3.0 cm. Mean follow-up was 5.5 years (range 0.5–27.0). Frequent complications were anastomotic leaks/strictures, gastroesophageal reflux (GER), esophagitis and dysphagia. Relative risk for strictures was significantly higher in patients who previously had a leak (p < 0.0001) or GER (p < 0.0001). Patients with GER also had a significantly higher risk for esophagitis (p = 0.0283) and dysphagia (p = 0.0174). The majority of patients could eat without swallowing difficulties at follow-up.

Conclusion

DPA provides good long-term functional results. However, the high incidence of GER and associated strictures requires early intervention to prevent feeding problems.

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Title: Delayed primary anastomosis for management of long-gap esophageal atresia: a meta-analysis of complications and long-term outcome
Authors: Florian Friedmacher
Prem Puri
Publication date: 01-09-2012
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Pediatric Surgery International / Issue 9/2012
Print ISSN: 0179-0358
Electronic ISSN: 1437-9813
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00383-012-3142-2

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Delayed primary anastomosis for management of long-gap esophageal atresia: a meta-analysis of complications and long-term outcome

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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