Posterior Tracheopexy may effectively repair tracheo-esophageal fistula; finds study

A recurrent tracheo-esophageal fistula can complicate esophageal atresia and tracheo-esophageal fistula (TEF) repair in children. Therapeutic approaches and the rate of recurrence vary widely. Most reports are limited by small cohorts and short-term follow-up, and rates of re-recurrence are substantial, making it difficult to select the treatment of choice. To address this challenge, the surgeons in the Esophageal and Airway Treatment (EAT) Center at Boston Children's Hospital have developed an innovative approach to treat recurrent TEFs with a posterior tracheopexy.

Researchers aimed to review our experience with the treatment of recurrent TEF using posterior tracheopexy, focusing on operative risks and long-term outcomes.

The team conducted a retrospective review of patients with esophageal atresia TEF with recurrent TEF treated at 2 institutions from 2011 to 2020. In the surgical approach,once the TEF is divided and repaired, the membranous trachea is sutured to the anterior longitudinal ligament of the spine (posterior tracheopexy) and the esophagus is rotated into the right chest (rotational esophagoplasty), separating the suture lines widely. To detect re-recurrence, patients undergo endoscopic surveillance during follow-up.

Results highlighted some interesting facts.

• Sixty-two patients with a recurrent TEF were surgically treated (posterior tracheopexy/rotational esophagoplasty) at a median age of 14 months. All had significant respiratory symptoms.
• On referral, 24 had earlier failed endoscopic and/or surgical attempts at repair. Twenty-nine required a concomitant esophageal anastomotic stricturoplasty or stricture resection.
• Postoperative morbidity included 3 esophageal leaks, and 1 transient vocal cord dysfunction.
• They have identified no recurrences, with a median follow-up of 2.5 years, and all symptoms have resolved.

"In a field where re-recurrence of recurrent TEF has been common, the emergence of a procedure with a zero-percent recurrence rate and minimal morbidity is a game-changer."the team concluded.

For full article follow the link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2021.01.011

Primary soure: Journal of the American College of Surgeons