Consequences
The condition following esophageal atresia requires professional follow-up treatment in the first few years. Although the prognosis is good, there are a number of postoperative complications that can be expected. In about 40% of children, gastroesophageal reflux (gastric acid flows back into the esophagus) occurs, which promotes frequent bronchopulmonary infections (infections affecting the lungs and bronchi) in infancy.
The reflux of stomach acid favors the aspiration of small food residues into the trachea, which leads to the infections. In some cases, an operation (fundoplication) at the stomach entrance is necessary. This operation ensures that no more gastric acid can flow back into the esophagus.
A further consequence is a more difficult food intake. Especially when changing from liquid to solid food, difficulties can occur due to an anastomosis quantity (30-40%). An anastomosis or anastomotic stenosis is a narrowing and/or occlusion of the surgical connection of the esophageal ends.
These narrowings are caused by the scarred structure of the operated tissue. If this is the case, dilation is necessary, which is performed under general anesthesia. Overall, however, the quality of life of children with operated esophageal atresia can be described as very good.