Long-gap esophageal atresia

Abstract

Although most patients with esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula benefit from “standard” management, which is deferred emergency surgery, some present with unexpected elements that change this paradigm. Long gap is one of the factors that can influence the therapeutic schedule of the patients with esophageal atresia and can make their treatment tricky. Consequently, detailed preoperative preparation is important for good decision-making and allows one to develop the most appropriate surgical plan. Repair of long-gap esophageal atresia typically involves a series of very difficult and technically challenging operations, but there are diagnostic and therapeutic tips that provide pivotal help in the management of these patients.