Esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula

Patients should be monitored for GERD, anastomic stricture, possible recurrent fistula, and other clinical symptoms that may indicate complications. Antireflux medications are usually continued for 1 year or longer, until there is no clinical or radiographic evidence of GERD.[44]Krishnan U, Mousa H, Dall'Oglio L, et al. ESPGHAN-NASPGHAN guidelines for the evaluation and treatment of gastrointestinal and nutritional complications in children with esophageal atresia-tracheoesophageal fistula. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2016 Nov;63(5):550-70. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27579697?tool=bestpractice.com Tracheomalacia may be a long-term issue. Cyanotic spells or episodes of less severe respiratory decompensation may warrant more aggressive treatment such as aortopexy or posterior tracheopexy.[7]van Lennep M, Singendonk MMJ, Dall'Oglio L, et al. Oesophageal atresia. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2019 Apr 18;5(1):26. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31000707?tool=bestpractice.com ​ If the infant is having trouble with feeds or secretions, or seems to have increased breathing effort, a barium swallow study should be obtained.