Growth and development after oesophageal atresia surgery: Need for long-term multidisciplinary follow-up

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Longitudinal Health Outcomes

Background:

• Oesophageal atresia (OA) survival rates now exceed 90%.
• Long-term follow-up has evolved from surgical/gastrointestinal focus to a multidisciplinary approach.
• Focus is shifting to long-term morbidity, particularly growth and neurodevelopment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature on long-term morbidity in oesophageal atresia patients.
• To discuss physical growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes.
• To propose a multidisciplinary follow-up schedule into adulthood.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of long-term morbidity in oesophageal atresia patients.
• Analysis of studies focusing on physical growth (stunting, wasting).
• Review of neurodevelopmental outcomes beyond preschool age.

Main Results:

• Growth problems like stunting and wasting are frequent in OA patients.
• Sufficient longitudinal data on catch-up growth into adulthood is lacking.
• OA patients are at risk for academic and motor function delays, with limited data beyond preschool age.

Conclusions:

• Growth retardation determinants in OA patients require further investigation.
• Long-term neurodevelopmental studies are scarce but indicate potential academic and motor issues.
• A multidisciplinary follow-up into adulthood is crucial for improving OA patient quality of life.