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Updated: Oct 1, 2026

Transuterine Fetal Tracheal Occlusion Model in Mice
Published on: February 5, 2021
[Esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula: personal contribution]
F Marinaccio1, M Nobili, F Niglio
1Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Foggia U.O. Chirurgia Pediatrica.
Insights
This study highlights the successful surgical correction of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula in newborns. The azygos vein flap technique proved effective for wide-gap cases, improving surgical outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Congenital Anomalies
- Thoracic Surgery
Context:
- Esophageal atresia (EA) and tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) are complex congenital anomalies requiring surgical intervention.
- This study reviewed 21 cases treated between 1988 and 1999, noting high rates of prematurity, SGA, and associated anomalies.
- Surgical correction was performed on all patients, with specific attention to managing tension at the anastomosis.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the surgical outcomes and complications in newborns with EA and TEF.
- To assess the utility of the azygos vein flap in reinforcing anastomoses in wide-gap EA cases.
- To analyze pathogenetic factors contributing to postoperative complications.
Summary:
- Twenty-one neonates with EA and TEF underwent surgical correction.
- The azygos vein flap was employed in three wide-gap cases to reduce anastomotic tension.
- Postoperative complications such as leak, stricture, recurrent TEF, and reflux were analyzed.
- Survival rates were 100% for Montreal I and 83% for Montreal II, with no deaths attributed to anastomotic complications.
Impact:
- The azygos vein flap is a valuable technique for managing wide-gap EA, strengthening the anastomosis and potentially reducing complications.
- Understanding pathogenetic factors aids in optimizing surgical strategies and improving long-term outcomes for EA/TEF patients.
- This study contributes to the evidence base for surgical management of EA/TEF, emphasizing successful outcomes with specific techniques.
Abstract:
From January 1988 to December 1999, 21 new born babies, 13 boys and 8 girls, with esophageal atresia (EA) and tracheosophageal fistula (TEF) were treated at Division of Pediatric Surgery in Foggia (Italy). At birth their weight ranged from 1.600 to 3.000 g, the gestional age ranged from 36 to 41 weeks. Five (23%) of them were premature, seven (58%) SGA, seventeen (80%) associated congenital anomalies. Complete surgical correction was performed in all patients. In three AE cases with wide-gap an azygos vein flap was used to strengthen the anastomosis under excessive tension. The pathogenetic factors involved in these complications such as leak, stricture (stenosis), recurrent TEF and gastro-esophageal reflux are (are taken into account) and analysed. No baby died owing to anastomatic complication. Survival rate was 100% in Montreal I and 83% in Montreal II. A new born baby died but his death was due to major associated conenital anomalies and not to surgical complications. The Authors believe that the azygos vein flap is a useful technique in the treatment of esophageal atresia wide-gap.
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