Complications after gastric transposition in children.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Esophagogastrostomy with gastric transposition, a procedure for replacement of the esophagus in cases of esophageal atresia, is increasing in popularity among pediatric surgeons. This study was undertaken to document the differences between postoperative complications in children and those reported in adults.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The authors reviewed the medical records and radiologic images for details of complications in 6 children (5 boys and 1 girl) who underwent esophagogastrostomy with gastric transposition for esophageal atresia. Follow-up ranged from 18 months to 12 years. The observations were compared with complications in adults, as reported in the literature.

RESULTS

The complications of gastric transposition were classified as early (up to 1 month after surgery) of late (more than 1 month after surgery). They included anastomotic leak (in 1 patient), hernia (in 1) and recurrent structure (in 3). In 1 patient mediastinal abscess developed secondary to esophageal perforation, which occurred during a dilation procedure for stricture.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative complications of gastric transposition occur less commonly in children than in adults. Benign stricture, which may occur both early and late, is the most common problem.