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Primary reversed gastric tube reconstruction in long gap esophageal atresia
M O McCollum1, S J Rangel, G K Blair
1Division of Pediatric Surgery, British Columbia's Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
Insights
Reversed gastric tube (RGT) reconstruction for long-gap esophageal atresia (EA) shows promising short-term outcomes. This technique facilitates early oral feeding and good growth in infants with complex esophageal conditions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Congenital Malformations
Background:
- Long-gap esophageal atresia (EA) presents significant surgical challenges.
- Multiple surgical techniques exist for esophageal reconstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the authors' experience with reversed gastric tube (RGT) for esophageal reconstruction in long-gap EA.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of RGT in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 7 infants with pure EA treated between 1989 and 2001.
- Data collection included malformations, repair technique, complications, and follow-up.
- Reversed gastric tube (RGT) reconstruction performed at a median age of 62 days.
Main Results:
- No anastomotic leaks were observed.
- Three patients developed strictures, with one requiring resection.
- Five patients achieved exclusive oral nourishment by 6 months; 6 were exclusively on oral nutrition at mean 4.5 years follow-up, all maintaining growth.
Conclusions:
- Early esophageal reconstruction using RGT in long-gap EA is feasible.
- The RGT technique demonstrates minimal morbidity and favorable short-term outcomes.
- RGT offers a viable option for managing complex EA cases.
Background/Purpose:
Esophageal reconstruction in long-gap esophageal atresia (EA) poses a technical challenge with several surgical options. The purpose of this study was to review the authors' experience with the reversed gastric tube (RGT) in esophageal reconstruction.
Methods:
This series describes 7 babies with pure EA treated at 2 centers between 1989 and 2001. Data, gathered by retrospective chart review, included clinical details of the esophageal and associated malformations, technique and timing of repair, early and late complications, and long-term follow-up. Institutional review board (IRB) approval of this study has been obtained.
Results:
Seven babies were included. Associated malformations were present in 4: trisomy 21 in 2 and imperforate anus in 2. After gastrostomy tube placement, patients were treated with gastrostomy tube feedings and continuous upper pouch suction. Median gap length was 5.5 vertebral segments (range, 3 to 9). RGT with a posterior mediastinal esophagogastric anastomosis was performed at median age of 62 days (range, 38 to 131). There were no anastomotic leaks. Three patients had strictures, one required resection. Exclusive oral nourishment was achieved in 5 patients by 6 months of age. At last follow-up (mean, 4.5 years), 6 patients were receiving oral nutrition exclusively, and all were maintaining growth curves.
Conclusions:
In long gap EA, early esophageal reconstruction using an RGT can be performed with minimal morbidity and promising short-term results.
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