Fundal tube esophagoplasty for esophageal reconstruction in atresia

This is a report of 4 patients with long gap/pure esophageal atresia, who, after an initial gastrostomy and cervical esophagostomy at birth, were treated with a new technique called fundal tube esophagoplasty.

The technique consisted of mobilization of the distal esophageal stump, division of the left gastric artery, and mobilization of upper half of stomach. Both walls of the stomach were incised in the region of the fundus starting on the lesser curvature in such a way that a tube was created out of the fundus, and the native esophageal stump appears to be an extension of this neoesophagus. This neoesophagus was brought to the neck by the retrosternal route and in a second stage, esophago-esophageal anastomosis was made. Thal's fundoplication was added in 2 cases.

All the stages have been completed successfully in 4 babies. They have been followed up for periods ranging from 8 to 24 months after restoration of esophageal continuity. All the children are thriving.

Fundal tube esophagoplasty (1) serves to provide a neoesophagus of natural caliber, (2) utilizes native esophagus in reconstruction, (3) does not produce a space-occupying problem in the mediastinum, and (4) preserves the gastric reservoir function. In this early experience, it appears to fulfill all the requirements of a good esophageal substitute.