Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Esophageal atresia (EA) and/or tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is one of the common developmental anomalies of the foregut. Despite advances in surgical techniques and postoperative care, respiratory system complications affect the quality of life of patients. We planned to evaluate our patients in terms of the general features, the risk factors for respiratory morbidity and short- and long-term respiratory complications after surgical treatment.

METHODS

Thirty-six patients with EA and/or TEF and followed after surgical treatment between 2002 and 2019 were retrospectively enrolled in the study.

RESULTS

The most common symptom was chronic cough (77.7%) and wheezing (41.6%). Recurrent pulmonary infections were present in the majority. The number of pulmonary infections was high in patients who had dilatation due to stricture(N=14) and in patients with recurrent TEF(N=6) and malacia(N=10). Bronchiectasis was present in 8 patients and hospital admission due to infections was high. Aeroallergen sensitivity was detected in four patients and food allergy in five patients. Scoliosis was present in 33.3% of the patients all of whom had recurrent pulmonary infections. Pulmonary function tests were performed in 10 patients. Five patients had impaired pulmonary function. Medical treatment for reflux was given to the majority of patients (N=30), while fundoplication was performed in 10 patients. Most of the patients had a significant decrease in the frequency of pulmonary infections after the procedure.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The etiology of pulmonary complications is multifactorial and many factors affect each other. Evaluation and management of the patients for each complication will improve the quality of life and comfort of the patients.