A large single-institution review of tracheoesophageal fistulae with evaluation of the use of transanastomotic feeding tubes.

INTRODUCTION: Transanastomatic feeding tube (TAT) use in the repair of tracheoesophageal fistulas (TEF) with or without esophageal atresia (EA) and EA with or without TEF allows for earlier enteral feedings, however, may predispose to esophageal stricture.

METHODS: We review our institutional experience with esophageal atresia repair over a 15-year period from 2000 to 2015 and report on our observed complication rate with emphasis on the surgical approach and use of TATs.

RESULTS: We identified 110 TEF repairs. Ninety-six were Type C, 7 were Type A, 4 were Type D, and 3 were Type E (H-Type). TATs were used in 74% of patients. The stricture rate with the TAT approached 56% versus 17% without a TAT (p<0.0005). There was no difference in leak rate (p=0.27). Ninety-four TEF repairs were performed via open thoracotomy, and 16 were initially approached thoracoscopically. Six out of 16 that were started thoracoscopically were completed with the minimally invasive approach. Whether the case was started thoracoscopically, completed thoracoscopically, or performed open made no difference in the rate of stricture or anastomotic leak, but we did observe an increase in musculoskeletal complications in the open thoracotomy group (28% vs. 0).

CONCLUSION: Our data suggests that the use of TATs does not protect against anastomotic leak, but may increase stricture rate. Further, the thoracoscopic group showed no difference in the leak or stricture rate and demonstrated less musculoskeletal complications. Confirmation of these findings will require a prospective study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.