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An overview of the clinical observation of a patient with the consequences of severe traumatic brain injury, with a tracheoesophageal fistula is presented. The article discusses a staged multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Abstract Background The surgical management of esophageal atresia in extreme-low-birth-weight infants ( 2.5 kg) is a good strategy for esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula in extreme-low-birth-weight infants.

Background: Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEFs) is a rare condition that requires complex surgical treatment. We analyzed the surgical outcomes of TEF reported in the literature and at Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital using standardized techniques. Methods: This retrospective study included 8 patients diagnosed with acquired benign TEF between March 2010 and December 2019. The surgical method was determined based on the size of the fistula observed within the endoscope. Results: TEF occurred in 7 patients (87.5%) after intubation or tracheostomy and in 1 patient (12.5%) after esophageal surgery due to conduit necrosis. For tracheal management, 5 and 2 patients underwent tracheal resection and end-to-end anastomosis and primary repair, respectively. The median length of resection was 2.5 cm (range, 1.3–3.4 cm). For esophageal management, 6 patients underwent primary repair and 1 patient underwent esophageal diversion. One patient underwent TEF division with a stapler. Interposition of a muscle flap was performed in 2 patients. TEF recurrence, esophageal stenosis, and dehiscence or granulation occurred in 1, 1, and 2 patients, respectively. A long-term tracheostomy tube or T-tube was used in 2 patients for >2 months. Conclusion: Although TEF surgery is complex and challenging, good results can be achieved if surgical standards are established and experience is accumulated.

Isolated h-type tracheoesophageal fistula (H-TEF) without esophageal discontinuity is rare and poses challenges in selecting a surgical approach due to the height of the fistula within the thoracic cavity. A female neonate was born prematurely at 31 weeks of gestation with a weight of 1200 g. She was intubated at birth due to respiratory distress. She was later diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome. Nasogastric tube feedings were initiated shortly after birth. Air bubbles could be seen coming out the nasogastric tube, which were suspicious for a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). A contrast esophagogram confirmed an h-type TEF at the level of the second thoracic vertebral body. When the patient was five months old and had a weight of 3 Kg, she was taken to the operating room for a thoracoscopic repair of the TEF. She was placed in complete left lateral position. Four 5-mm ports were placed in the right hemithorax. The right vagus nerve was identified. We first created a pleural flap with the mediastinal pleura. Blunt dissection of the esophagus and the trachea allowed clear identification of the TEF. A vessel loop was placed around the TEF. The TEF was divided. The esophageal end the tracheal sides of the TEF were closed with interrupted stitches. The pleural flap was interposed between the two stumps. The operation took 238 minutes. The postoperative period was uneventful, and she had no recurrence of the TEF. She underwent a tracheostomy one month later, and a laparoscopic fundoplication three months after that. She was discharged home at one year of age. Thoracoscopy appears to be a suitable approach for the repair of high thoracic h-type TEF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commissural or lateral facial cleft (macrosomia), classified at Tessier number 7 craniofacial clefts, is a rare congenital anomaly usually associated with deformities of other structures developed from the first and second branchial arches. It affects the esthetics and functional aspect of the oral cavity. Bilateral transverse cleft occurring alone is uncommon and it's with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) has not been reported to the best of our knowledge. We report a case of esophageal atresia (EA) and TEF with macrosomia. EA was repaired, and the patient was discharged on full feeds. He is awaiting cleft repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tracheoesophageal fistula is uncommon in adults but can cause devastating aspiration events. Herein, we report a unique case of a tracheoesophageal fistula in an adult that presented intraoperatively. The patient did not have any prior history of abdominal or thoracic surgery and was not intubated for a prolonged period of time. The diagnosis, subsequent hospital course, and recommendations for early recognition of this rare condition are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Esophageal atresia patients are predisposed to gastroesophageal reflux as a result of the altered esophageal anatomy and motility. These patients experience significant morbidity from gastroesophageal reflux. As a result, an effective way to diagnose and monitor for reflux is crucial. pH-metry is able to quantify acid burden, ensure that acid suppression is adequate during long-term follow-up, and correlate acid reflux to symptoms. pH with impedance is additionally able to detect non-acid reflux as well as volume clearance, both of which also correlate with patient symptoms. It is also able to correlate extra-gastrointestinal symptoms to reflux, which may help guide treatment. If complications associated with uncontrolled reflux are identified, aggressive reflux management is necessary, oftentimes requiring surgical intervention.

Lung carcinoma may erode into different adjacent structures and cause various local complications, including the formation of fistulas. A middle-aged male with a history of fever, cough with hemoptysis, and progressive dyspnea was found to have right upper lobe non-small cell carcinoma of the lung. Subsequently, he developed right pyopneumothorax and persistent air leak suggestive of bronchopleural fistula and suffered hypoxic cardiac arrest. Postintubation and return of spontaneous circulation, the patient started exhibiting persisted air leak from oral cavity, which made ventilation difficult along with leak via chest drain. An ulcer around the upper esophagus necessitated a computed tomography scan, which revealed two trachea-esophageal fistulas. Left-sided one-lung ventilation was employed, which improved ventilation, but the patient succumbed to the underlying disease process and septic shock. On the background of lung carcinoma and a known leaking process, a source of a second leak can often be missed. Positive pressure ventilation can be a daunting task in the presence of two concomitant leaking processes. Thus, it is imperative for an intensivist to have a high index of suspicion to detect such occurrence in a patient with lung carcinoma.

BackgroundSelf-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) is a palliative therapy for patients with malignant central airway obstruction (CAO) or tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). Despite this, many patients experience death shortly after SEMS placement.AimsWe aimed to investigate the effect of SEMS on the palliative treatment between malignant CAO and malignant TEF patients and investigate the associated prognostic factors of the 3-month survival.MethodsWe performed a single-center, retrospective study of malignant CAO or TEF patients receiving SEMS placement. Clinical data were collected using the standardized data abstraction forms. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22.0. A two-sided P-value

Summary: Esophageal atresias/tracheoesophageal fistulas (EA/TEF) are rare congenital anomalies caused by aberrant development of the foregut. Previous studies indicate that rare or de novo genetic variants significantly contribute to EA/TEF risk, and most individuals with EA/TEF do not have pathogenic genetic variants in established risk genes. To identify the genetic contributions to EA/TEF, we performed whole genome sequencing of 185 trios (probands and parents) with EA/TEF, including 59 isolated and 126 complex cases with additional congenital anomalies and/or neurodevelopmental disorders. There was a significant burden of protein-altering de novo coding variants in complex cases (p = 3.3 × 10−4), especially in genes that are intolerant of loss-of-function variants in the population. We performed simulation analysis of pathway enrichment based on background mutation rate and identified a number of pathways related to endocytosis and intracellular trafficking that as a group have a significant burden of protein-altering de novo variants. We assessed 18 variants for disease causality using CRISPR-Cas9 mutagenesis in Xenopus and confirmed 13 with tracheoesophageal phenotypes. Our results implicate disruption of endosome-mediated epithelial remodeling as a potential mechanism of foregut developmental defects. Our results suggest significant genetic heterogeneity of EA/TEF and may have implications for the mechanisms of other rare congenital anomalies.

Abstract Background Caudal tracheal stent migration can be potentially life threatening by causing distal luminal obstruction. We present a rare double hitch stitch procedure (for prevention of migration of tracheal stent), which is an external fixation technique in a case of tracheoesophageal fistula with tracheal and esophageal self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS). Case presentation A 50-year-old male patient who presented with cough and dyspnea was a known case of carcinoma of the esophagus with esophageal stent in situ. Computed tomography (CT) scan showed tracheoesophageal fistula with esophageal stent (esophageal SEMS) migrating into the trachea. Tracheal stenting was done with SEMS. Patient was followed up after 1 month with recurrent complaints of cough on deglutition. On follow-up bronchoscopy, migration of stent was observed. A rare procedure of double hitch stitch was performed with fixation of the tracheal stent (tracheal SEMS) using a percutaneous anchoring stitch, embedded in the subcutaneous tissue. Follow-up bronchoscopy after 1 month of the procedure showed no migration of stent. Conclusion For the treatment of large tracheoesophageal fistula, stenting of both the trachea and the esophagus along with the double hitch stitch proved to be lifesaving. Stent migration prevention using “double hitch-stitch” is simple, safe, and successful, without any complications.

Abstract A case of TEF along with subglottic stenosis in a patient as a result of prolong intubation. We performed left unilateral tracheal repair to avoid injury to left recurrent laryngeal nerve followed by endoscopic balloon repair of stenosis. Due to critical condition of the patient and COVID‐19 infection, she expired.

Infection with COVID-19 pneumonia may necessitate intubation and mechanical ventilation. Viral inflammation and pressure necrosis may lead to scarring, stenosis, and in severe cases, fistula formation. Nonmalignant tracheoesophageal fistulas (TEF) represent a surgical challenge and may necessitate locoregional tissue transfer and tracheal resection to prevent recurrence and maintain airway patency. We present a case of TEF in a 63-year-old female secondary to prolonged mechanical ventilation in the setting of COVID pneumonia, detailing the clinical findings and surgical repair. Primary closure of the esophageal defect with pectoralis major muscle flap onlay and tracheal resection, with median sternotomy for access, provided successful intervention, allowing for subsequent tracheostomy decannulation and return to a complete oral diet. This case offers further evidence of the increased risk of airway complications in COVID-19 infection and provides otolaryngologists with an example of a rare surgical approach useful in management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recurrent and primary tracheoesophageal fistulas (TEFs) are a challenging surgical pathology to treat, as standard open surgical approaches are associated with high morbidity and mortality. As such, endoscopic modalities have gained interest as an alluring alternative, yet variable success rates have been reported in the literature. The aim of this study was to provide a contemporary update of the literature and describe our institutional experience with the bronchoscopic obliteration of recurrent and primary TEFs. Retrospective chart review of all pediatric patients having undergone endoscopic TEF repair at two pediatric academic centers in Montreal, Canada and Lille, France between January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2020. 28 patients with TEFs (20 recurrent, 8 primary) underwent a total of 48 endoscopic procedures. TEF repair was performed under endoscopic guidance using various combinations of techniques, including fistula de-epithelialization (endoscopic brush, thulium laser, trichloroacetic acid-soaked pledgets or electrocautery), tissue adhesives, submucosal augmentation, esophageal clip and stenting. Successful closure was achieved in 16 patients (57 %), while 12 (43 %) required eventual open or thoracoscopic repair. The mean number of endoscopic procedures was 1.7. There were no major treatment-related complications such as pneumothorax, mediastinitis or death (mean follow-up 50.8 months). Endoscopic repair of recurrent or primary TEFs is a valuable component of our therapeutic armamentarium and may contribute to decreased surgical morbidity in this complex patient population. Families should be counselled that endoscopic results may be more modest than with open or thoracoscopic approaches, and multiple procedures may be required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acquired non-malignant tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a rare pathological connection between the trachea and esophagus caused primarily by iatrogenic injuries. Cuff-related injury causes pressure necrosis of the tracheoesophageal walls, often due to the overinflation of tubes. A 29-year-old male who was mechanically ventilated for 3 months developed TEF after weaning from ventilation. The patient had severe sepsis, right lower lobe pneumonia, and parapneumonic effusion requiring multidisciplinary approach management. Preoperative measures were applied, including control of sepsis, nutritional support, stomach decompression, lung physiotherapy, placement of the cuff distal to the fistula, and weaning from ventilation. We performed a one-stage TEF repair with an interposition strap muscle flap using the lateral approach. The surgical approach greatly depends on the fistula location, size, and concomitant tracheal stenosis. Large TEFs or tracheal stenosis are repaired with segmental tracheal resection and anastomosis. Small TEFs and a normal trachea are repaired with direct closure of tracheal and esophageal defects, which can be performed through lateral or anterior cervicotomy. This case emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, preoperative management, and meticulous surgical technique in the management of acquired TEF. • Symptoms of tracheoesophageal fistula manifest even after weaning from ventilation. • Lateral approach a viable option when the surrounding tracheal mucosa intact • Preoperative and multidisciplinary management have a great effect on prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The indications and benefits of anti-reflux surgery (ARS) in neonates and infants are uncertain. Prematurity, operation before 1 year of age, neurological impairment (NI), and chronic lung disease (CLD) are risk factors for surgical failure. We aim to document the indications, management, and outcomes of ARS in this age group and compare them among primary and secondary gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). Results: Between January 2008 and December 2019, 24 males and 22 females had ARS; 13 (28.3%) for primary while 33 (71.7%) for secondary GERD. The mean gestational age was 34.6 weeks (range 24–41) and mean birth weight was 2000 gm (range 600–3300). The weight at time of referral ranged from 1.4 kg to 4 kg (mean 2.2 kg). There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the previous data. The group of primary GERD presented mainly with recurrent aspiration (n = 8), recurrent apnea (n = 5), and recurrent desaturations with or shortly after feeds (n = 4). The group of secondary GERD were referred for poor sucking with failure to thrive (FTT) (n = 25), recurrent aspiration (n = 20), and gastrostomy request (n = 14). The risk factors for secondary GERD were neurologically impaired (n = 22), post-esophageal atresia (EA) repair (n = 9), hiatus hernia (n = 4), thoracic stomach (n = 2), N-type tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF, n = 4), and congenital esophageal stenosis (CES, n = 4). The operations included open Nissen's fundoplication (ONF) (n = 4) and modified open Thal's fundoplication (MOTF) (n = 42). There were 8 mortalities in the secondary group, unrelated to surgery. Morbidities after Nissen's fundoplication included wrap migration, gas bloat, and reoperation in one, laparotomy for intestinal obstruction (IO) in one. Following MOTF, there were two cases of transient recurrent GERD which improved with time and laparotomy in one for IO. Conclusions: Diagnostic tests remain a challenge. Isolated TEF and CES may require fundoplication for staged management. Cases of the primary group did better with MTFO. Prematurity, CLD and age < 2 months were not significant risk factors for fundoplication failure or mortality. Neurological impairment was a risk factor for mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Esophageal atresia (EA) is not a rare congenital anomaly. It is usually accompanied by tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). Respiratory morbidities are experienced in most of the survivors. Although it was believed that these symptoms tend to improve by age, permanent lung damage may continue to adulthood in some patients. We aimed to assess the respiratory tract in the follow-up period as an attempt to correlate possible findings with symptoms experienced which allowed us to pay more attention to the respiratory tract during the upcoming surgical interventions. Prospective observational study was conducted on patients presented to our institute, throughout 2018, with various degrees of refractory respiratory tract involvement, after having had their EA repaired inside or outside our institute. After exclusion of esophageal causes of these manifestations, bronchoscopy was performed to correlate the findings with the symptoms experienced by these patients. The study does not include patients repaired after 2018 as surgical modifications were performed and are still under study. Results: Fifteen patients presented with various respiratory symptoms. Although recurrent chest infection is the commonest presentation, acute life-threatening events were reported in 5 patients. Blind-ended tracheal diverticulum was the most common finding observed in 80% of patients. About 76% of these patients were found to have tracheomalacia. Moreover, bronchoscopy was able to detect recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula in 4 patients. Vocal cords were affected in 13% of these patients. Conclusions: Frequent respiratory symptoms in operated patients warrant careful long-term monitoring and appropriate management. Although bronchoscopy is considered a mandatory pre-repair procedure, it is a crucial tool in evaluating the survivors. It is pivotal to pay more attention to the respiratory tract to modify the surgical techniques to overcome these pitfalls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a congenital heart disease found in a newborn with an incidence of 6%. It presents a significant clinical challenge in neonates posted for major surgeries like tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) repair. We report the case of anesthetic management of a 2-day-old infant with CoA and duct-dependent circulation posted for TEF repair. We describe how physiology affects its perioperative management and the role of maintaining balance in peripheral vascular resistance and systemic vascular resistance to maintain ductal flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/Hypothesis: The recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is at risk during pediatric cervical, thoracic, and cardiac surgery. We aim to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of RLN monitoring techniques in all pediatric patients. Study Design: Retrospective case series. Methods: Retrospective review of patients/procedures with RLN(s) at risk and RLN monitoring at Boston Children's Hospital July 2019–October 2020. Primary outcomes: pre/postoperative vocal fold mobility by awake flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy (FFL). Results: One hundred one patients (median [interquartile range, IQR] age 14.6 months [4.6–49.7 months], weight 10 kg [5.2–16.2 kg]) underwent 122 procedures with RLN(s) at risk. RLN monitoring attempted 111 cases, successful 96 (84%). Surgical indications: esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula, and tracheobronchomalacia. Sixty‐two (56%) procedures in reoperative field. Median follow‐up 112 days (IQR 41–230). Pre/postoperative FFL performed 84 procedures (69%), 19 new postoperative RLN injuries (16%), median age 12 months, reoperative fields 11 (18%). Prass probes: 34 cases (28 successful, 82%), 6 injuries (18%), age 12.2 (5.8–23.6) months. Dragonfly electrodes: 45 cases (37 successful, 82%), 8 injuries (18%), age 7.5 (3.8–19) months. Nerve integrity monitoring (NIM) integrated electrode endotracheal tube: 33 cases (33 successful, 100%), 5 injuries (15%), age 90 (58.8–136.7) months. Automatic periodic stimulation (APS): 16 cases, 13 successful (81%), four injuries (25%), age 7.2 (5.3–20.6) months. NIM RLN monitoring is significantly more successful than Prass, Dragonfly (95%CI −0.3 to 0.02, P =.02; and 95%CI 0.05–0.31, P =.008). Rates of injury are not different between types of RLN monitoring (P =.94), with APS use (P =.47), or with monitoring success (95%CI −0.36 to 0.09, P =.28). Conclusions: RLN monitoring is feasible in pediatric patients of all ages. Although NIM type RLN monitoring success is superior, all forms offer similar rates of nerve protection. Level of Evidence: 3 Laryngoscope, 132:889–894, 2022 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the current pandemic, we witnessed a rise of post-intubation tracheal stenosis (PITS) in patients intubated due to COVID-19. We prospectively analyzed data from patients referred to our institution during the last 18 months for severe symptomatic post-intubation upper airway complications. Interdisciplinary bronchoscopic and/or surgical management was offered. Twenty-three patients with PITS and/or tracheoesophageal fistulae were included. They had undergone 31.85 (±22.7) days of ICU hospitalization and 17.35 (±7.4) days of intubation. Tracheal stenoses were mostly complex, located in the subglottic or mid-tracheal area. A total of 83% of patients had fracture and distortion of the tracheal wall. Fifteen patients were initially treated with rigid bronchoscopic modalities and/or stent placement and eight patients with tracheal resection-anastomosis. Post-treatment relapse in two of the bronchoscopically treated patients required surgery, while two of the surgically treated patients required rigid bronchoscopy and stent placement. Transient, non-life-threatening post-treatment complications developed in 60% of patients and were all managed successfully. The histopathology of the resected tracheal specimens didn't reveal specific alterations in comparison to pre-COVID-era PITS cases. Prolonged intubation, pronation maneuvers, oversized tubes or cuffs, and patient- or disease-specific factors may be pathogenically implicated. An increase of post-COVID PITS is anticipated. Careful prevention, early detection and effective management of these iatrogenic complications are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We examined rates of upper aerodigestive tract (UADT) procedures in a multi‐institutional cohort of neonates with esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula (EA/TEF) to estimate secondary UADT pathology. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed using a previously‐validated population of patients with EA/TEF within the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) between 2007 and 2015. ICD‐9/10‐CM codes for aerodigestive procedures were examined from 2007 to 2020: 1) diagnostic direct laryngoscopy and/or bronchoscopy (DLB), 2) DLB with intervention, 3) tracheostomy, 4) gastrostomy, 5) fundoplication, 6) aortopexy, 7) laryngotracheoplasty, and 8) esophageal dilation. Associations between procedures and demographics, length of gestation, and weight were estimated using generalized linear mixed models. Results: We identified 2,509 patients with EA/TEF from 47 hospitals, 56.7% male and 43.3% female. Median length of stay for the first admission was 24 days (interquartile range: 12–55). Of these patients, 1,943 (77.4%) had at least one aerodigestive procedure within 14 admissions. Specifically, 1,635 (65.2%) underwent diagnostic DLB, 85 (3.4%) DLB with intervention, 167 (6.7%) tracheostomy, 1,043 (41.2%) gastrostomy, 211 (11.0%) fundoplication, 52 (2.1%) aortopexy, 161 (6.4%) laryngotracheoplasty, and 207 (8.3%) esophageal dilation. Preterm gestation increased odds of tracheostomy (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.5–3.7), gastrostomy (OR 2.1, CI 1.7–2.7), fundoplication (OR 1.7, CI 1.1–2.4), aortopexy (OR 5.8, CI 2.1–16.1), and esophageal dilation (OR 2.0, CI 1.4–3.0). Very low birth weight (<1,500 g) increased odds of gastrostomy (OR 2.5, CI 1.6–3.8). Conclusion: Patients with EA/TEF frequently have aerodigestive sequelae. This work helps quantify aerodigestive needs in neonates with EA/TEF, suggesting early otolaryngology evaluation in their care. Level of Evidence: 3 Laryngoscope, 132:695–700, 2022 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background A communicating bronchopulmonary foregut malformation (CBPFM) group IB is very rare congenital malformation. Group IB is associated with tracheoesophageal fistula and esophageal atresia (TEF-EA) and a portion of one lung arisen from the esophagus (Gerle et al. in N Engl J Med. 278:1413–1419, 1968). The coexistence of TEF-EA and dextrocardia is also a rare and challenging setting for repair of TEF-EA. Therefore, the thoracoscopic surgery for TEF-EA require the technical devise because of the small operative space. We herein report a rare case of CBPFM group IB with intralobar sequestration of lung and a successful performing of thoracoscopic surgery for EA with dextrocardia in VACTERL association. Case presentation A 2.2-kg term male neonate was born with an anal atresia, coarctation of the aorta, TEF-EA, renal anomalies, radial hemimelia, limb abnormalities (VACTERL association) and hypoplasia of the right lung with dextrocardia. The patient developed respiratory distress after admission. A two-stage operation for the TEF-EA was planned because of multiple anomalies and cardiac condition. In the neonatal period, esophageal banding at the gastroesophageal junction and gastrostomy were performed to establish enteral nutrition. After gaining body weight and achieving a stable cardiac condition, thoracoscopic surgery for TEF-EA was performed. The thoracoscopic findings revealed a small working space due to dextrocardia. To obtain a sufficient working space and to perform secure esophageal anastomosis, an additional 3-mm assistant port was inserted. To close the upper and lower esophagus, anchoring sutures of the esophagus were placed and were pulled to suspend the anastomotic site. Esophageal anastomosis was successfully performed. An esophagogram after TEF-EA surgery showed the connection between the lower esophagus and right lower lung. The definitive diagnosis was CBPFM group IB with intralobar sequestration. The thoracoscopic surgery was performed again for establishing oral intake. After transection of the bronchoesophageal fistula, the patient could perform oral feeding without pneumonia or respiratory distress. Conclusions CBPFM type IB with intralobar sequestration is a rare condition. CBPFM type IB should be considered for a patients with respiratory symptom after radical operation for TEF-EA. In the present case, suspending the anastomotic site was effective and useful in thoracoscopic surgery for a TEF-EA patient with dextrocardia.

Esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a congenital defect that often presents with respiratory distress in neonates. The anatomical defect in the form of connection between the esophagus and the trachea often affects respiratory function. Gastric distention often occurs due to large air leak into the stomach and may lead to respiratory distress. Surgical correction of the anatomical defect will improve the outcome in these patients. Preoperative preparation and intraoperative management is an essential point. Suboptimal preparation may lead to a life-threatening situation intraoperative. Focusing on airway and ventilatory management may help in reducing morbidity and mortality. We report a case of anesthesia management of TEF repair in a premature neonate with a complication during airway and ventilatory management.

Introduction: Among children, esophageal atresia (EA) with or without tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is one of the major and common congenital anomalies. It is a life-threatening emergency and at birth may be associated with three C's coughing, choking, and cyanosis. It requires surgical interventions in the early neonatal period. The postsurgical period is associated with poor growth which can be developmental outcomes particularly in the first 5 years of life and attributed to postsurgical complications. The aim of the study is to assess and compare the growth and development of the children (1–5 years) operated for TEF/EA attending Pediatric Surgery OPD/admitted inwards at APC, PGIMER, Chandigarh versus healthy controls. Materials and Methods: A case–control study was conducted on age-matched 40 children aged between 1 and 5 years operated for TEF/EA and healthy controls. The sampling technique for cases was total enumeration and for controls was purposive sampling. Tools used were socio-demographic sheets of children, clinical profile of children, Trivandrum Development Screening chart, and Vineland Social Maturity Scale for Indian adaptation. Results: Majority 33 (82.5%) of children had distal TEF and more than two-third 28 (70%) have undergone primary repair. More than one-third 14 (35%) had a respiratory infection, 12 (30%) anastomosis leakage and 6 (15%) had Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) as one of the early and late postoperative complications. More than one-fourth 11 (27.5%) of TEF/EA operated children had less weight, 11 (30%) had less height and 16 (40%) had less weight for height for their reference age. A significant difference was found for height for age, weight for height, and social maturity among children who had TEF repair as compared to their healthy counterparts. Conclusion: Growth monitoring reflected (more than one-fourth of children were underweight and stunted while more than one-third were wasted) and showed development delay in TEF/EA operated children as compared to healthy controls.

The anesthetic management of newborns with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) and esophageal atresia (EA) can be challenging due to fistula between the airway and esophagus leading to difficulty in perioperative airway management. Maintaining the endotracheal tube (ETT) position during surgical manipulation and adequate ventilation without gastric distention complications is crucial. This study presents two cases of full-term and normal-birthweight newborns with Type C TEF/EA. Both of the patients underwent one-step surgical repair without gastrostomy insertion. Instead of using gastrostomy, correct placement of ETT might be checked by physical examination. Induction of anesthesia was done using volatile inhalational agents and fentanyl as analgetic. For intubation facilitation, spontaneous breath and ventilation were maintained to prevent gastric distention. This report showed that good intubation conditions could be achieved with deep volatile agents and without muscle relaxants. Patients were ventilated with an assisted-controlled technique following their spontaneous breath until the defect was ligated. Hemodynamic was maintained stably in both patients during the operation. Full-term babies with normal birthweight and no other congenital anomalies are generally associated with a better prognosis.

Latar Belakang: Insiden tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) dan esophageal atresia (EA) berkisar antara 1:3000 dan 1:4500 kelahiran. Antara 20% sampai 50% bayi dengan TEF/EA memiliki defek kongenital lainnya yang biasa disebut VACTERL (vertebral, anal, cardiac, tracheoesophageal, renal, limb). Kasus: Bayi usia 30 hari berat badan 2600 gram dengan diagnosis TEF tipe C dengan komplikasi pneumonia neonatal dan penyakit jantung bawaan ASD sinus venosus besar dan PDA sedang direncanakan tindakan thorakotomi ligasi fistel. Pasien sudah dilakukan gastrostomi dan esofagostomi sebelum tindakan ligasi. Pasien dilakukan manajemen anestesi dengan general anestesi intubasi dengan kontrol ventilasi. Selama operasi terjadi beberapa kali desaturasi akibat retraksi paru yang dimanajemen dengan ventilasi manual dengan pemberian PEEP dan pengurangan retraksi oleh operator. Dua hari post operasi pasien dilakukan ekstubasi dan diganti dengan CPAP. Kesimpulan: Manajemen anestesi dengan TEF/EA memerlukan evaluasi dan perencanaan mulai preoperatif, intraoperatif, dan postoperatif. Evaluasi preoperatif berupa investigasi VACTERL, masalah kardiak dan respirasi berkaitan perencanaan manajemen anestesi yang akan dilakukan. Manajemen intraoperatif termasuk teknik intubasi, pemilihan teknik awake atau apnea bergantung kondisi dan komorbid dari pasien. Manajemen postoperatif berupa perawatan ventilator, kontrol nyeri optimal serta pengawasan kardiorespirasi.

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.

Objective:We aimed to present the effectiveness of self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS) in dysphagia score and fistula closure, which are used in palliation for dysphagia and tracheoesophageal fistula seen in primary and secondary advanced esophagus tumors.Method:We reviewed the files and records of 34 patients who underwent stent implantation due to esophageal stricture and/or fistula in our clinic between 1997 and 2002. The patients were assessed regarding age, gender, the reason for stent insertion (stricture or fistula), localization of stricture or fistula, pre-procedural and post-procedural dysphagia scores (DS), stent specifications, tumor histopathology, complications and need for re-stenting.Results:In our clinic, 36 SEMS were inserted to 34 patients during this period. The median age was 64 years (range: 44-82 years). There were 24 men and 10 women. Of the patients considered as inoperable, 15 (44%) had primary esophagus carcinoma while 19 (46%) had secondary esophagus carcinoma including 9 gastric carcinomas, 8 lung cancers, 1 larynx cancer and 1 acute myeloid leukemia. The anatomic localizations included cervical esophagus in one patient (3%), thoracic esophagus in 16 patients (47%), and distal esophagus in 17 patients (50%). There was stricture in 25 patients (73.5%), stricture plus fistula in 6 patients (17.6%), and fistula alone in 3 patients (8.8%). Thirty-six self-expandable stents were implanted in 34 patients for stricture and fistula palliation, including 30 (29 covered, 1 non-covered) Ultraflex stent, 3 Wallstent esophageal stents, and 3 Flamingo stent, a modified Wallstent for gastroesophageal junction tumors. The dysphagia score was 4 (unable to swallow anything) in 5, 3 (difficulty to swallow liquids) in 20, and 2 (difficulty to swallow solid foods) in 6 of 31 patients with a stricture. The mean dysphagia score was found as 2.96 before the procedure whereas 0.19 after the procedure. There was minimal difficulty to swallow solid foods (DS:1) in 6 patients and no dysphagia (DS:0) in 25 patients after the procedure. The fistula tract was closed by SEMS in all 9 cases (3 with fistula and 6 with fistula plus stricture) in which fistula tract palliation was intended. No major complication was detected in 36 stent interventions performed in 34 patients while minor complication rate was 17.6% including stent migration in 2 patients, complete obstruction at the distal tip due to food plug in 2 and granulation tissue in one patient, and less than 50% expansion of the stent in one patient. Re-stenting was performed in 2 patients with minor complications. The re-stenting rate was 5.8% in our study.Conclusion:SEMS are among first-line modalities in the palliation of malignancy-related esophagus stricture and fistula. Palliation of esophagus stricture and fistulas due to primary or secondary esophagus malignancies using SEMS is a safe, effective, and readily tolerable method. The accurate positioning of a stent in a safe manner can be achieved using fluoroscopy during procedure. Endoscopy before and after procedure improves the success and effectiveness of the procedure.

The occurrence of tracheal fistulas of ischemic genesis combined with the failure of esophagogastroanastomosis and the communication between them is a rare and formidable complication after esophagectomy with mediastinal lymphadenectomy due to its anatomical position and extensiveness. However, it is insufficiently documented in the literature, both in terms of treatment and in terms of its causes. This observation aims to demonstrate the rare cause of this complication and the atypical successful treatment. In this case, a patient with squamous cell carcinoma G2 of the middle third of the esophagus and TNM stage cT3NxM0. On the McKeown thoracoscopic-laparotomy esophagectomy intraoperatively a short arterial vessel with a diameter of about 3 mm, which passed through the paracancerous infiltration and supplied blood to the esophagus and trachea revealed. The vessel was not isolated from the infiltrate, but was clipped and crossed between the aorta and infiltrate to maintain surgery ablastic. On the 7th day after the operation the insolvency of esophagogastroanastomosis, the fistula of the trachea with mediastinum and the communication between the leak of esophagogastroanastomosis and the fistula of the trachea were diagnosed. We consider this combination as a special case of esophagogastroanastomosis fistula, complicated by the communication between the right pleural cavity and pneumothorax. According to our experience, partial leak of esophagogastroanastomosis successfully heals by secondary tension within 10–15 days against the background of cervicotomic wound drainage and feeding through a nasointestinal tube. In this case there was a leak of saliva in the mediastinum and its penetration into the lumen of the trachea and the right pleural cavity. Surgical diversion of the fistula and stenting of the trachea were considered, but not applied, as the fistula in our opinion was controlled, but the aggressive content of the gastric conduit prevented healing. The patient was on assisted lung ventilation with minimal pressure support and inflow increased oxygen fractio. For this reason, we considered the best stenting of the esophagogastroanastomosis leak area to be covered with a stent in order to stop the aggressive content of the gastric stem from entering the fistula, which led to the successful treatment of the developed severe complication. It should be noted that this method of treatment may be ineffective in patients who need pressure support during ventilation.

Key message Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a late complication of tracheostomy and may cause fatal pulmonary complications. This case reports a TEF caused by tracheostomy‐cuff‐related pressure necrosis presenting with air leaks and recurrent pneumonia.

Background: Despite great advances in the overall management of neonates with esophageal atresia (EA), many complications leading to morbidity still occurs. Most complications can be treated conservatively, but effective management is needed to reduce long-term morbidity. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed on neonates treated for EA with/without a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) between 2001 and 2020. Data were collected from patient records, discharge summaries, and surgical notes. The information recorded included: maternal and neonatal demographics, information regarding the diagnosis, and details surrounding the surgery. Results: During the 19-year study period, 53 neonates with a mean gestational age of 36.7 weeks were included for analysis. Forty-nine percent presented with an associated anomaly (most commonly, complex cardiac lesions). The majority (83%) had a primary repair on a median of day 3 of life. Nineteen neonates had a surgical complication 30 days post-repair: 7 minor (contained leaks and a chylothorax) and 12 major complications including anastomotic strictures, major anastomotic breakdowns, a recurrent TEF, and 5 surgery-related mortalities. Conclusions: This study showed less morbidity and mortality of neonates born with EA, despite a high incidence of associated anomalies, in a resource-restricted hospital. It is important to highlight that even with limited resources, centers in low- or middle-income countries can have good outcomes.

BackgroundEsophageal atresia is corrected surgically by anastomosing and recreating esophageal continuity. To allow the removal of excess fluid and air from the anastomosis, a prophylactic and temporary intraoperative chest tube (IOCT) has traditionally been placed in this area during surgery. However, whether the potential benefits of this prophylactic IOCT overweigh the potential harms is unclear.ObjectiveTo assess the benefits and harms of using a prophylactic IOCT during primary surgical repair of esophageal atresia.Data SourcesWe conducted a systematic review with a meta-analysis. We searched Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (2021, Issue 12), MEDLINE Ovid, Embase Ovid, CINAHL, and Science Citation Index Expanded and Conference Proceedings Citation Index—(Web of Science). Search was performed from inception until December 3rd, 2021.Study SelectionRandomized clinical trials (RCT) assessing the effect of a prophylactic IOCT during primary surgical repair of esophageal atresia and observational studies identified during our searches for RCT.Data Extraction and SynthesisTwo independent reviewers screened studies and performed data extraction. The certainty of the evidence was assessed by GRADE and ROBINS-I.PROSPERO RegistrationA protocol for this review has been registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021257834).ResultsWe included three RCTs randomizing 162 neonates, all at overall “some risk of bias.” The studies compared the placement of an IOCT vs. none. The meta-analysis did not identify any significant effect of profylacitic IOCT, as confidence intervals were compatible with no effect, but the analyses suggests that the placement of an IOCT might lead to an increase in all-cause mortality (RR 1.66, 95% CI 0.76–3.65; three trials), serious adverse events (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.58–2.00; three trials), intervention-requiring pneumothorax (RR 1.65, 95% CI 0.28–9.50; two trials), and anastomosis leakage (RR 1.66, 95% CI 0.63–4.40). None of our included studies assessed esophageal stricture or pain. Certainty of evidence was very low for all outcomes.ConclusionsEvidence from RCTs does not support the routine use of a prophylactic IOCT during primary surgical repair of esophageal atresia.

BackgroundEsophageal atresia (EA) is one of the most common congenital digestive anomalies. With improvements in surgical techniques and intensive care treatments, the focus of care of these patients has shifted from mortality to morbidity and quality-of-life issues. These children face gastrointestinal (GI) problems not only in early childhood but also through adolescence and adulthood. There is, however, currently a lack of a systematic approach to the care of these patients. The GI working group of International Network on Esophageal Atresia comprises members from ESPGHAN/NASPGHAN and was charged with the task of developing uniform evidence-based guidelines for the management of GI complications in children with EA.MethodsThirty-six clinical questions addressing the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of the common GI complications in patients with EA were formulated. Questions on the diagnosis, and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux, management of "cyanotic spells," etiology, investigation and management of dysphagia, feeding difficulties, anastomotic strictures, congenital esophageal stenosis in EA patients were addressed. The importance of excluding eosinophilic esophagitis and associated GI anomalies in symptomatic patients with EA is discussed as is the quality of life of these patients and the importance of a systematic transition of care to adulthood. A systematic literature search was performed from inception to March 2014 using Embase, MEDLINE, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials, and PsychInfo databases. The approach of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation was applied to evaluate outcomes. During 2 consensus meetings, all recommendations were discussed and finalized. The group members voted on each recommendation, using the nominal voting technique. Expert opinion was used where no randomized controlled trials were available to support the recommendation.

Cesarean scar pregnancy, is the implantation of a gestational sac within the myometrium at the side of previous cesarean section scar, is a rare type of ectopic pregnancy. Ultrasonography is the first and most important diagnostic method of this condition. Increased suspicion with widespread use of ultrasound lead to the recognition of most cases of Cesarean scar pregnancy in early pregnancy. This allows for rapid interventions and preservation of the uterus and fertility. The use of conservative treatments, including medical treatment, especially with methotrexate, saves from surgeries such as hysterectomy and preserves women's fertility. In this study, we presented a case of cesarean scar pregnancy which was successfully treated with transvaginal ultrasound-guided injection of methotrexate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) is a promising new technique for use in children of various ages. In this case report, a successful ultrasound (USG) guided TPVB procedure in premature neonate is described. A 3-day-old 1600-g neonate, born at 32 weeks of gestation, was underwent thoracostomy for esophageal atresia with esophageal fistula repair. At the end of the surgery, USG-guided TPVB were successfully performed using a linear probe in the paramedian position. USGguided TPVB could be an alternative method for providing effective analgesia in a premature neonates in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite great advances in the overall management of neonates with esophageal atresia (EA), many complications leading to morbidity still occurs. Most complications can be treated conservatively, but effective management is needed to reduce long-term morbidity. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed on neonates treated for EA with/without a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) between 2001 and 2020. Data were collected from patient records, discharge summaries, and surgical notes. The information recorded included: maternal and neonatal demographics, information regarding the diagnosis, and details surrounding the surgery. Results: During the 19-year study period, 53 neonates with a mean gestational age of 36.7 weeks were included for analysis. Forty-nine percent presented with an associated anomaly (most commonly, complex cardiac lesions). The majority (83%) had a primary repair on a median of day 3 of life. Nineteen neonates had a surgical complication 30 days post-repair: 7 minor (contained leaks and a chylothorax) and 12 major complications including anastomotic strictures, major anastomotic breakdowns, a recurrent TEF, and 5 surgeryrelated mortalities. Conclusion: This study showed less morbidity and mortality of neonates born with EA, despite a high incidence of associated anomalies, in a resource-restricted hospital. It is important to highlight that even with limited resources, centers in low- or middle-income countries can have good outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Esophageal atresia is a complex esophageal malformation with an incidence of 1 in 3,500–4,000 live births, and it usually occurs together with anomalies in other systems or chromosomes. This study aimed to investigate the short-term and long-term results of cases of esophageal atresia retrospectively in our institution and to analyze the factors affecting the outcome. Methods: Charts of the patients managed for esophageal atresia in our tertiary pediatric surgery department were investigated retrospectively. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the risk factors for morbidity and mortality. Results: One hundred and thirteen (95.8%) of 118 cases underwent a single-stage or staged esophagoesophagostomy procedure. In only five of the 40 patients with a long gap between the two atretic ends was an esophageal replacement procedure required. The most common early and late complications were anastomotic stenosis (41.6%) and gastroesophageal reflux (44.9%). In logistic regression analysis, the birthweight (OR [95% CI] = 0.998 [0.997, 0.999], P = 0.001) and preoperative inotrope requirement (OR [95% CI] = 13.8 [3.6–53.3], P < 0.001) were the two risk factors in the mortality prediction model obtained by multivariate analysis. The gap length between the two atretic ends (OR [95% CI] = 1.436 [1.010, 2.041], P = 0.044) and the number of sutures for anastomosis (OR [95% CI] = 1.313 [1.042, 1.656], P = 0.021) were the two risk factors in the gastroesophageal reflux prediction model obtained by multivariate analysis. Conclusions: Our study’s early and late complication rates were like those found in other studies. Identifying risk factors would be beneficial and might help reduce the severity of potential complications in esophageal atresia patients. Prospective studies on large patient series would help develop registry-based, standardized management protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Surgical closure of persistent tracheoesophageal fistulas (TEFs) is complex. Most patients present with multiple risk factors, which may negatively impact the outcome and influence the treatment strategies. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included 22 patients presenting with persistent TEFs. Preoperative RT, comorbidities, tissue conditions of the TEFs and neck skin, and surgical techniques were evaluated regarding a possible impact on success rates and outcome. RESULTS: 21 patients were operated, 95.45% with final success. However, in 52.39% repeated surgery was needed. Final closure of TEFs was achieved in 91.47% only after more invasive surgery was performed. The surgical technique applied had the most significant impact on success rates and outcome compared to all other risk factors analyzed. Our own data and that of the literature point out that the surgical strategy should be adapted to the patients' individual risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: According to the literature, surgical closure of persistent TEFs is demanding. Our data suggest that, considering that the majority of patients with persistent TEFs exhibit multiple risk factors, early performance of more invasive surgery seems associated with a better outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a paucity of literature on the anesthetic management of pediatric esophageal substitution using the stomach. We did a retrospective analysis of all such cases done at our institution. We analyzed the patient's demography, indication, and type of surgery, co-morbid conditions, anesthesia techniques, duration of postoperative ventilation, hospital stay, complications, and mortality. The use of beta-blockers and their effect on the incidence of intraoperative and postoperative tachycardia in gastric pull-up patients was also analyzed. Results: Thirty-four cases of gastric substitution of the esophagus in children were done over 19-year period; gastric pull-up was done in 28 patients and a gastric tube was made in 6 patients. General anesthesia was given to all; a thoracic epidural for pain was sited in 25 patients. Twenty-eight patients were ventilated postoperatively; the mean duration of ventilation is 54 h. Significant intraoperative tachycardia was observed in 85.7% of patients without beta-blocker as compared to 23.8% patients with beta-blocker (p = 0.004). Postoperatively, tachycardia was absent in patients receiving beta-blocker and present in 71.4% of patients not receiving beta-blockers (p < 0.001). Overall mortality was 8.8% but mortality due to cardiac arrhythmia was 42.9% in the patients not receiving beta-blockers (p = 0.001). Conclusions: A thorough preoperative preparation, control of tachyarrhythmias, postoperative ventilation, and pain management is recommended for a favorable outcome. In addition, our paper supports the preoperative use of beta-blockers in reducing the incidence of fatal tachyarrhythmias associated with gastric pull-up surgery without any serious adverse effects. Level of evidence: Level III [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 44‐year‐old woman with Behcet's disease experienced a severe COVID‐19 infection and developed a tracheoesophageal fistula. Despite the need for surgical treatment, she did not consent. Therefore, the patient underwent supportive treatment with a jejunostomy tube. After four weeks of follow‐up, the fistula was repaired spontaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Over 50% of all esophageal atresia patients were diagnosed with comorbidities • Patients with esophageal atresia underwent median 4 surgeries during childhood • Patients with esophageal atresia underwent median 3 stricture dilatations Children born with esophageal atresia (EA) face comorbidities and complications often requiring surgery and anesthesia. We aimed to assess all procedures performed under general anesthesia during their first 12 years of life. We performed a retrospective cohort study about subsequent surgeries and procedures requiring general anesthesia in children born with type C EA between January 2007 and December 2017, with follow-up to March 2019. Of 102 eligible patients, 63 were diagnosed with comorbidities, of whom 18 had VACTERL association. Follow-up time for all patients varied between 14 months and 12 years (median 7 years). The patients underwent total 637 procedures, median 4 [IQR2-7] per patient. In the first year of life, 464 procedures were performed, in the second year 69 and in the third year 29. Thirteen patients underwent no other procedures than primary EA repair. In 57 patients, 228 dilatations were performed. Other frequently performed procedures were esophagoscopy (n=52), urologic procedures (n=44) and abdominal procedures (n=33). Patients with EA frequently require multiple anesthetics for a variety of procedures related to the EA, complications and comorbidities. This study can help care providers when counselling parents of a patient with an EA by giving them more insight into possible procedures they can be confronted with during childhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We sought to evaluate the impact of thoracoscopic repair on perioperative outcomes in infants with esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula (EA/TEF). Methods: The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program pediatric database from 2014 to 2018 was queried for all neonates who underwent operative repair of EA/TEF. Operative approach based on intention to treat was correlated with perioperative outcomes, including 30-day postoperative adverse events, in logistic regression models. Results: Among 855 neonates, initial thoracoscopic repair was performed in 133 (15.6%) cases. Seventy (53%) of these cases were converted to open. Those who underwent thoracoscopic repair were more likely to be full-term (p = 0.03) when compared to those in the open repair group. There were no significant differences in perioperative outcome measures based on surgical approach except for operative time (thoracoscopic: 217 min vs. open: 180 min, p <0.001). A major cardiac comorbidity (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2–2.1; p = 0.003) and preoperative ventilator requirement (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.0–1.9; p = 0.034) were the only risk factors associated with adverse events. Conclusions: Thoracoscopic neonatal repair of EA/TEF continues to be used sparingly, is associated with high conversion rates, and has similar perioperative outcomes when compared to open repair. Level of evidence : III [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]