The multi-disciplinary management of complex congenital and acquired tracheo-oesophageal fistulae

H S Thakkar1, R Hewitt2,3, K Cross1

  • 1Neonatal and Paediatric Surgery, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK.

Insights

A multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach effectively manages complex tracheo-oesophageal fistulae (TOF) in children. This collaborative strategy aids decision-making for rare congenital and acquired TOF cases, improving patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Otolaryngology
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Complex tracheo-oesophageal fistulae (TOF) are rare pediatric conditions, presenting as congenital or acquired defects.
  • Management of these complex cases requires specialized expertise and coordinated care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary (MDT) approach in managing complex pediatric tracheo-oesophageal fistulae (TOF) over a five-year period.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective data collection of pediatric patients with recurrent or acquired TOF.
  • Diagnostic investigations included CT scans, bronchoscopy, bronchogram, microlaryngobronchoscopy, and oesophagoscopy.
  • All cases were discussed in emergent MDT meetings for treatment planning.

Main Results:

  • 14 patients were included, with 50% congenital and 50% acquired TOF etiologies.
  • Acquired TOF cases included button battery ingestions and iatrogenic injuries post-oesophageal atresia repair.
  • Surgical repair was performed in most cases; 64% experienced complications, including anastomotic leak, vocal cord paresis, recurrence, and mortality.

Conclusions:

  • A multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach is crucial for managing complex pediatric tracheo-oesophageal fistulae (TOF).
  • Shared expertise within an MDT facilitates optimal decision-making for these rare and challenging cases.
Abstract

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