Publication:

Outcomes of esophageal atresia in a tier II referral centre

Background To study the clinical profile, complications and outcomes of neonates with esophageal atresia (EA) and/or tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) in a tier II referral centre.

Methods This is a retrospective study of 54 patients with EA and/or TEF from 2008 to 2014.

Results Fifty four cases of EA/ TEF which were reviewed, 32 (59.26%) were male and 22 (40.74%) were female patients. The mean birth weight was 2.38 kg. 39(72.22%) babies were born at term and 15(27.78%) were preterm. Most common anatomical variant was type C. Most common associated anomaly was cardiac, seen in 8 patients (14.81%). Post operative barium study showed minor leaks in 7 patients. 22 of 54 patients (40.74%) died.

Conclusions Early recognition of symptoms and early referral to hospitals would improve the outcomes of neonates with EA/TEF. Sepsis remains the leading causes of mortality, and delayed referral with onset of pneumonia contribute to sepsis.