[Broncho-pulmonary complications in survivors of esophageal atresia. (author's transl)].

The short term prognosis of the esophageal atresia has been improved by the progress of diagnosis and surgical techniques. The long term prognosis still depends upon the occurrence of bronchopulmonary complications. Having investigated fourteen cases and a review of the literature, the authors studied the cause of these respiratory complication. Two factors seem to play an important role: the gastroesophageal reflux and the tracheomalacia. This has important therapeutical implications: treatment of the gastro-esophageal reflux and long term respiratory kinesitherapy. The authors suggest for these patients a management plan over several years.