The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, Vol 38, 606-610, Copyright © 1984 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons
Surgical treatment of congenital esophageal atresia
MF McKneally, LW Britton, JR Scott and HW Kausel
Severe gastroesophageal reflux was found in 9 out of 18 infants with
congenital esophageal atresia studied radiographically shortly after
primary reconstruction. Pulmonary complications were recorded in 18 out of
32 similar patients in long-term follow-up. Strictures at the level of the
anastomosis were detectable in 18 out of 32 patients; eleven strictures
were severe enough to require dilation or surgical revision. These findings
suggest that early evaluation for gastroesophageal reflux may be useful in
management of infants with esophageal atresia. The precautions taken
preoperatively to prevent complications of gastroesophageal reflux should
be continued in the postoperative interval unless a competent lower
esophageal sphincter is demonstrated.