Genomic Contributors to Esophageal Atresia and Tracheoesophageal Fistula: A 12 Year Retrospective Review.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate genetic testing utilization and diagnostic yield in infants with esophageal atresia (EA)/tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) over the past 12 years to inform future practices and individualize prognostication and management. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective cohort study was performed for all infants with EA or EA/TEF hospitalized between January 2011 and January 2023 at a quaternary children's hospital. For each infant, demographic information, prenatal and postnatal history, and genetic testing were reviewed. RESULTS: There were 212 infants who were classified as follows: 1) complex/syndromic with EA/TEF plus an additional major anatomic anomaly (n = 114, of which 74 met VACTERL criteria); 2) isolated/nonsyndromic EA/TEF (n = 88) and 3) isolated/nonsyndromic EA (n = 10). A range of genetic tests were sent with varying diagnostic rates including karyotype analysis in 12 (all with complex/syndromic phenotypes and all positive), chromosomal microarray analysis in 189 (114 of whom were complex/syndromic with an overall diagnostic rate of 3/189), single gene testing for CHD7 in 18 (4 positive), and exome analysis in 37 complex/syndromic patients (8 positive). CONCLUSIONS: EA/TEF with and without additional anomalies is genetically heterogeneous with a broad range of associated phenotypes. While the genetic etiology of EA/TEF with or without VACTERL remains largely unknown, genome wide testing (exome or genome) including copy number analysis is recommended over chromosomal microarray testing. We anticipate that expanded genetic/genomic testing modalities such as RNA sequencing and tissue specific molecular testing are needed in this cohort to improve our understanding of the genomic contributors to EA/TEF.

Feeding and Swallowing Characteristics of Children With Esophageal Atresia and Tracheoesophageal Fistula.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to characterize feeding/swallowing difficulties in children with esophageal atresia and/or tracheoesophageal fistula (EA/TEF) and evaluate associations among feeding difficulties, pharyngeal dysphagia (PD), and other aerodigestive evaluation findings. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of feeding/swallowing characteristics of 44 patients with EA/TEF treated in the aerodigestive program of a single academic medical institution from 2010 to 2015. Demographics, comorbidities, presence and characteristics of feeding/swallowing difficulties, and results of relevant diagnostic tests [videofluoroscopic swallow studies (VFSS), clinical feeding evaluations (CFEs), chest computerized tomography (CT) scans, pulmonary bronchoscopies, and upper GI (UGI)/esophagrams] were reviewed. RESULTS: Fifty percent of the cohort had PD and 88.6% had feeding difficulties. Across 118 encounters (87 VFSS and 31 CFEs), feeding difficulties suggestive of esophageal dysphagia were most frequently seen in children over 48 months and feeding difficulties suggestive of developmental feeding problems were most frequently seen in children from 24 to 48 months. Abnormal findings were present in 59.8% of VFSS, with aspiration (34.5%) and pharyngeal residue (26.4%) the most frequently observed signs of dysphagia. Abnormal UGI/esophagram findings were not associated with significantly increased risk of feeding difficulties during visits within 3 months (risk ratio, RR = 1.33). Presence of dysphagia was associated with increased risk for some abnormal CT findings (RR= 3.0 for airspace and 3.0 for bronchiectasis). CONCLUSIONS: Feeding/swallowing difficulties are common in EA/TEF, and types of feeding difficulties vary by patient age. The presence of abnormal findings on UGI/esophagram did not increase the risk of feeding complaints; however, the presence of dysphagia increased the risk of abnormal chest CT.

H-Type Tracheoesophageal Fistula Cannulation for Rapid Intraoperative Localization.

Various techniques for tracheoesophageal fistula cannulation have been reported. In this case, we created a loop using a plastic catheter. The loop allowed us to create traction for rapid intraoperative localization and to pull a difficult-to-reach fistula, superiorly into the neck, to be reached through a cervical approach. Laryngoscope, 133:2425-2427, 2023.

Surgical approach for iatrogenic tracheoesophageal fistula. Case report and literature review.

BACKGROUND: Post-intubation tracheoesophageal fistula is a severe complication in long-term mechanical ventilation patients with possible fatal consequences. OBJECTIVE: To describe a case of post-intubation tracheoesophageal fistula and its surgical management. In addition, a brief literature review was effectuated. CASE REPORT: 45-year-old female, suffers ischemic stroke with progressive neurological damage that requires long-term mechanical ventilation. During endoscopic gastrostomy tracheoesophageal fistula is shown. RESULTS: Undergoes surgery for esophageal repair and tracheal resection, through cervicosternotomy. Unfortunately died in the immediate postoperative period. CONCLUSIONS: This complex pathology requires structured protocols for its prevention in patients in whom long-term mechanical ventilation is expected.

ANTECEDENTES: La fístula traqueoesofágica es una complicación en pacientes con ventilación mecánica prolongada. La contaminación pulmonar permanente puede ser grave, con evolución fatal. OBJETIVO: Describir un caso de fístula traqueoesofágica posintubación y hacer una breve revisión de la literatura. CASO CLÍNICO: Mujer de 45 años que sufre un evento cerebrovascular isquémico que condiciona deterioro neurológico progresivo, ameritando ventilación mecánica prolongada. Durante la gastrostomía endoscópica se evidencia una fístula. RESULTADOS: Intervenida quirúrgicamente para reparación esofágica y resección traqueal mediante cervicoesternotomía, lamentablemente fallece en el posoperatorio inmediato. CONCLUSIONES: Esta patología es compleja. Deben implementarse protocolos enfocados en su prevención en pacientes en quienes se espera una ventilación mecánica prolongada.

Atresia esofágica tipo III associada a ânus imperfurado: um relato de caso / Esophageal atresia type III associated to imperforate anus: a case report

Introdução: As malformações congênitas são defeitos que ocorrem durante o desenvolvimento embrio-fetal, principalmente entre a terceira e oitava semana de gestação, podendo ser suspeitado no período pré-natal. A atresia de esôfago com ou sem fístula traqueoesofágica pode estar associada a outras anomalias congênitas, como o ânus imperfurado, o qual faz parte uma síndrome denominada malformação anorretal. Objetivo: discutir o caso de um recém-nascido (RN) portador de atresia de esôfago tipo III e ânus imperfurado, bem como associar suas ocorrências simultâneas. Relato de caso: paciente do sexo masculino, advindo de uma gestação gemelar complicada por pré-eclâmpsia, apresentava ao nascimento ausência do reflexo de busca e sucção, bradicardia e cianose central. Foi diagnosticado com ânus imperfurado e atresia esofágica. Foram realizados cirurgia de Colostomia em Duas Bocas e tratamento cirúrgico da atresia de esôfago. O paciente ficou 48 dias em incubadora com intubação orotraqueal e ventilação mecânica por 26 dias. Resultado: a programação pós- alta indicada foi o acompanhamento com cirurgião pediátrico e neurocirurgião, tendo evoluído bem e aguardando anorretoplastia. Conclusão: o rápido diagnóstico é tão necessário, nesses casos, quanto as abordagens cirúrgicas. O apoio psicológico aos familiares é de extrema importância, pois visa a melhor aceitação da família frente ao caso, propiciando dessa forma, melhores prognóstico e tratamento do paciente.

Introduction: Congenital malformations are defects that occur during embryo-fetal development, especially between the third and eighth week of pregnancy, and may be suspected in the prenatal period. Esophageal atresia with or without tracheoesophageal fistula may be associated with other congenital anomalies, such as the imperforate anus, which is part of a syndrome called anorectal malformation. Objective: to discuss the case of a newborn (NB) with type III esophageal atresia and imperforate anus, as well as to associate its simultaneous occurrences. Case report: male patient, resulting from a twin pregnancy complicated by pre-eclampsia, had at birth the absence of the search and suction reflex, bradycardia and central cyanosis. He was diagnosed with imperforate anus and esophageal atresia. Double-barrel colostomy surgery and esophageal atresia surgery were performed. The patient spent 48 days in an incubator with orotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation for 26 days. Results: the post-discharge schedule indicated was for follow-up with a pediatric surgeon and neurosurgeon. Patient evolved well and awaits anorectomy. Conclusion: rapid diagnosis is as necessary in these cases as surgical approaches. Psychological support to family members is extremely important, as it aims at better family acceptance in the case, thus providing better prognosis and treatment for the patient.

Tratamiento conservador del quilotórax posquirúrgico en paciente pediátrico / Conservative treatment of post-surgical chylothorax in pediatric patient

INTRODUCCIÓN. El quilotórax resulta de un daño al conducto torácico por ruptura, laceración, desgarro o compresión. Es una patología rara de derrame pleural en la edad pediátrica, pero frecuente como complicación posterior a cirugía cardiotorácica. La base del tratamiento conservador se ha fundamentado en: drenaje inicial, modificación de la dieta, uso de somatostatina o análogos sintéticos como octreotide, cirugía, prevención y manejo de complicaciones. Fue preciso describir la experiencia institucional clínica así como su abordaje. CASO CLÍNICO. Paciente masculino de 4 meses de edad, que ingresó a la Unidad Pediátrica Área de Emergencias del Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín, el 13 de septiembre de 2019 con antece-dente quirúrgico de atresia de esófago corregida en etapa neonatal. Acudió con dificultad respiratoria, radiografía de tórax que evidenció derrame pleural derecho, toracentesis diagnóstica con salida de líquido de aspecto turbio y lechoso; se colocó tubo de tórax derecho. Se prescribió ayuno inicial, nutrición parenteral durante 4 semanas hasta comprobar resolución del quilotórax. Fue dado de alta en condición estable tras 43 días de hospitalización. DISCUSIÓN. La evidencia científica registró que el tratamiento conservador del quilotórax se basó en: drenaje, reposo digestivo inicial, nutrición parenteral, modificación cualitativa de la dieta enteral y uso de octreotide; el mismo que fue aplicado al paciente de este caso clínico con evolución favorable. CONCLUSIÓN. El tratamiento conservador y multidisciplinario en el abordaje del qui-lotórax fue exitoso y no necesitó manejo quirúrgico.

INTRODUCTION. Chylothorax results from damage to the thoracic duct by rupture, la-ceration, tear or compression. It is a rare pathology of pleural effusion in pediatric age, but frequent as a complication after cardiothoracic surgery. The basis of conservative treatment has been based on: initial drainage, diet modification, use of somatostatin or synthetic analogues such as octreotide, surgery, prevention and management of complications. It was necessary to describe the clinical institutional experience as well as its approach. CLINICAL CASE. A 4-month-old male patient was admitted to the Emergency Area Pediatric Unit of the Carlos Andrade Marín Specialties Hospital on september 13, 2019 with a surgical history of esophageal atresia corrected in the neonatal stage. He went with respiratory distress, chest X-ray that showed right pleural effusion, diagnostic thoracentesis with outflow of cloudy and milky fluid; a right chest tube was placed. Initial fasting was prescribed, parenteral nutrition for 4 weeks until resolution of the chylothorax was verified. He was discharged in stable condition after 43 days of hospitalization. DISCUSSION. The scientific evidence recorded that the conservative treatment of chylothorax was based on: drainage, initial digestive rest, parenteral nutrition, qualitative modification of enteral diet and use of octreotide; the same that was applied to the patient of this clinical case with favorable evolu-tion. CONCLUSION. Conservative and multidisciplinary treatment in the approach to chylothorax was successful.

Double-lumen Aortic Arch: Persistence of the Fifth Aortic Arch?

Abstract Double-lumen aortic arch is a rare congenital anomaly related to persistence of the fifth aortic arch. It may be found alone or in association with other anatomical changes of the heart. We report a case of double-lumen aortic arch associated with coarctation of the aorta and patent ductus arteriosus in a child with a congenital malformation known as the VACTERL association (vertebral defects, imperforate anus, cardiopathy, tracheoesophageal fistula, renal abnormalities and limb anomalies).

Early presentation of post-intubation tracheoesophageal fistula with severe tracheal stenosis in COVID-19 patient.

The current global COVID-19 pandemic is caused by the novel coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Currently, acquired tracheoesophageal fistulas are mainly iatrogenic lesions produced by prolonged tracheal intubation. We present a case of tracheoesophageal fistula with severe tracheal stenosis following tracheal intubation in a patient with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Risk Factors of Early Mortality and Morbidity in Esophageal Atresia with Distal Tracheoesophageal Fistula: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the risk factors for early mortality and morbidity in a population with distal esophageal atresia (EA)-tracheoesophageal fistula. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study from a national register. Main outcomes and measures included early mortality, hospital length of stay (LoS), need for nutritional support at 1 year of age as a proxy measure of morbidity, and complications during the first year of life. RESULTS: In total, 1008 patients with a lower esophageal fistula were included from January 1, 2008, to December 31, 2014. The survival rate at 3 months was 94.9%. The cumulative hospital LoS was 31.0 (17.0-64.0) days. Multivariate analysis showed that intrahospital mortality at 3 months was associated with low birth weight (OR 0.52, 95% CI [0.38-0.72], P < .001), associated cardiac abnormalities (OR 6.09 [1.96-18.89], P = .002), and prenatal diagnosis (OR 2.96 [1.08-8.08], P = .034). LoS was associated with low birth weight (-0.225 ± 0.035, P < .001), associated malformations (0.082 ± 0.118, P < .001), surgical difficulties (0.270 ± 0.107, P < .001), and complications (0.535 ± 0.099, P < .001) during the first year of life. Predictive factors for dependency on nutrition support at 1 year of age were complications before 1 year (OR 3.28 [1.23-8.76], P < .02) and initial hospital LoS (OR 1.96 [1.15-3.33], P < .01). CONCLUSIONS: EA has a low rate of early mortality, but morbidity is high during the first year of life. Identifying factors associated with morbidity may help to improve neonatal care of this population.

Características clínico-quirúrgicas de la atresia esofágica en el Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño San Borja, Lima, Perú. 2015-2017 / Clinical-surgical characteristics of esophageal atresia in the National Institute of Children's Health San Borja, Lima, Peru. 2015-2017

RESUMEN Objetivo : Describir las características clínico-quirúrgicas y sociodemográficas de pacientes con atresia esofágica (AE) del Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño San Borja (INSN-SB) 2015-2017. Material y métodos : Estudio observacional descriptivo de casos con AE 2015-2017. Los datos se procesaron y analizaron en el programa SPSS v20, las variables cualitativas fueron expresadas en frecuencias absolutas y relativas. Resultados : Se analizaron 74 casos con AE, 55,4% (n=41) fueron de sexo masculino. Según edad gestacional 45 a término, 28 pre-término y un post-término. El 59,5% tuvieron peso adecuado al nacer. 28,4% tuvieron control prenatal (CPN) completo y 68,9% no tuvieron diagnóstico prenatal de AE. La atresia con fistula traqueo-esofágica (FTE) distal fue la más frecuente con 74,3% (n=55). Se presentó sialorrea en 55 pacientes (74,3%) y disnea en 54 (72,9%). Predominaron las malformaciones cardiacas en el 27,1%, seguida por digestivas 20,3% y genitourinarias 17,6%. Solo 26 tuvieron síndromes asociados, VACTERL en 12 casos. La anastomosis termino-terminal y cierre de fistula se realizó en 55 pacientes (74,3%). 48 presentaron complicaciones tempranas, predominando sepsis (20,3%) y 46 complicaciones tardías, siendo reflujo gastroesofágico el más frecuente 29,7%. La mortalidad fue 10,8%. Conclusiones : La mayoría fue de sexo masculino, a término, con adecuado peso al nacer y sin CPN. La AE con FTE distal fue la más frecuente. Sialorrea y disnea fueron los síntomas predominantes y malformaciones cardiacas y digestivas las más asociadas. La anastomosis término-terminal y cierre de fístula fue la técnica más frecuente, como complicaciones sepsis y reflujo gastroesofágico. La mortalidad fue baja.

ABSTRACT Objective : Describe the clinical-surgical and sociodemographic characteristics of patients with esophageal atresia (EA) of the Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño San Borja (INSN-SB) during 2015-2017. Material and methods : Descriptive observational study of cases with EA 2015-2017. The data was processed and analyzed in the SPSS v20 program, the absolute and relative frequency distributions were expressed in tables. Results : 74 cases with AE were analyzed, 55.4% (n=41) were male. According to gestational age, 45 were at term, 28 pre-term and one post-term. 59.5% had adequate weight at birth. Only 28.4% had complete prenatal care (CPN). 68.9% did not have a prenatal diagnosis of AE. Atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) was the most frequent in 74.3% (n=55). Hypersalivation occurred in 55 patients (74.3%), followed by dyspnea in 54 (72.9%). Cardiac malformations predominated in 27.1%, followed by digestive 20.3% and genitourinary 17.6%. Only 26 had associated syndromes, VACTERL in 12 cases. End-to-end anastomosis and fistula closure were performed in 55 patients (74.3%). 48 presented early complications, predominating sepsis (20.3%) and 46 late complications, with gastroesophageal reflux being the most frequent 29.7%. Regarding mortality, 8 (10.8%) died. Conclusions : Most of the cases were male, at term, with adequate weight at birth and without CPN. AE with distal TEF was the most frequent. Sialorrhea and dyspnea were the predominant symptoms and cardiac and digestive malformations the most associated. End-to-end anastomosis surgery and fistula closure was the most frequent technique. Complications were sepsis and gastroesophageal reflux. Mortality was low.

Fístula traqueoesofágica en H en el período neonatal: dificultades en el diagnóstico y diferentes abordajes terapéuticos. Serie de casos / H-type tracheoesophageal fistula in neonatal period: Difficulties in diagnosis and different treatment approaches. A case series

La fístula traqueoesofágica congénita sin atresia esofágica asociada, conocida como tipo H, es una anomalía infrecuente. Se manifiesta con episodios de tos, ahogo y cianosis durante la alimentación y/o neumonía recurrente.Si bien los síntomas están usualmente presentes desde el nacimiento, el diagnóstico es difícil. La rareza de esta patología, los síntomas no específicos y las limitaciones en la demostración radiológica y endoscópica de la fístula contribuyen, a menudo, a la demora entre la presentación y la confirmación del diagnóstico.Se describen las manifestaciones clínicas, los métodos de evaluación y el tratamiento de 3 neonatos con esta patología, y se presentan recomendaciones para el diagnóstico a fin de evitar demoras innecesarias en el manejo de las fístulas en H.

Congenital tracheoesophageal fistula not associated with esophageal atresia, known as H-type fistula, is an uncommon anomaly. It presents with cough, choking, and cyanosis during feeding and/or recurrent pneumonia. Although symptoms are usually present from birth, diagnosis is difficult. The rarity of this disease, non-specific symptoms, and the limitations of radiological and endoscopic confirmation of the fistula often result in a delay between presentation and diagnosis confirmation. Here we describe the clinical manifestations, assessment methods, and management of 3 newborn infants with H-type tracheoesophageal fistula, together with diagnosis recommendations to prevent unnecessary delays in the management of this condition.

H-type tracheoesophageal fistula in the neonatal period: Difficulties in diagnosis and different treatment approaches. A case series. / Fístula traqueoesofágica en H en el período neonatal: dificultades en el diagnóstico y diferentes abordajes terapéuticos. Serie de casos.

Congenital tracheoesophageal fistula not associated with esophageal atresia, known as H-type fistula, is an uncommon anomaly. It presents with cough, choking, and cyanosis during feeding and/or recurrent pneumonia. Although symptoms are usually present from birth, diagnosis is difficult. The rarity of this disease, non-specific symptoms, and the limitations of radiological and endoscopic confirmation of the fistula often result in a delay between presentation and diagnosis confirmation. Here we describe the clinical manifestations, assessment methods, and management of 3 newborn infants with H-type tracheoesophageal fistula, together with diagnosis recommendations to prevent unnecessary delays in the management of this condition.

La fístula traqueoesofágica congénita sin atresia esofágica asociada, conocida como tipo H, es una anomalía infrecuente. Se manifiesta con episodios de tos, ahogo y cianosis durante la alimentación y/o neumonía recurrente. Si bien los síntomas están usualmente presentes desde el nacimiento, el diagnóstico es difícil. La rareza de esta patología, los síntomas no específicos y las limitaciones en la demostración radiológica y endoscópica de la fístula contribuyen, a menudo, a la demora entre la presentación y la confirmación del diagnóstico. Se describen las manifestaciones clínicas, los métodos de evaluación y el tratamiento de 3 neonatos con esta patología, y se presentan recomendaciones para el diagnóstico a fin de evitar demoras innecesarias en el manejo de las fístulas en H.

[Clinical-surgical characteristics of esophageal atresia in the National Institute of Children's Health San Borja, Lima, Peru. 2015-2017]. / Características clínico-quirúrgicas de la atresia esofágica en el Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño San Borja, Lima, Perú. 2015-2017.

OBJECTIVE: Describe the clinical-surgical and sociodemographic characteristics of patients with esophageal atresia (EA) of the Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño San Borja (INSN-SB) during 2015-2017. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Descriptive observational study of cases with EA 2015-2017. The data was processed and analyzed in the SPSS v20 program, the absolute and relative frequency distributions were expressed in tables. RESULTS: 74 cases with AE were analyzed, 55.4% (n=41) were male. According to gestational age, 45 were at term, 28 pre-term and one post-term. 59.5% had adequate weight at birth. Only 28.4% had complete prenatal care (CPN). 68.9% did not have a prenatal diagnosis of AE. Atresia with distal tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) was the most frequent in 74.3% (n=55). Hypersalivation occurred in 55 patients (74.3%), followed by dyspnea in 54 (72.9%). Cardiac malformations predominated in 27.1%, followed by digestive 20.3% and genitourinary 17.6%. Only 26 had associated syndromes, VACTERL in 12 cases. End-to-end anastomosis and fistula closure were performed in 55 patients (74.3%). 48 presented early complications, predominating sepsis (20.3%) and 46 late complications, with gastroesophageal reflux being the most frequent 29.7%. Regarding mortality, 8 (10.8%) died. CONCLUSIONS: Most of the cases were male, at term, with adequate weight at birth and without CPN. AE with distal TEF was the most frequent. Sialorrhea and dyspnea were the predominant symptoms and cardiac and digestive malformations the most associated. End-to-end anastomosis surgery and fistula closure was the most frequent technique. Complications were sepsis and gastroesophageal reflux. Mortality was low.

Cuidados de las fístulas traqueoesofágicas postintubación / Care of the post-intubation tracheoesophageal fistulae

Introducción: Las fístulas traqueoesofágicas posintubación son lesiones graves que presentan alta frecuencia de complicaciones y mortalidad. Objetivo: Actualizar el diagnóstico y tratamiento de pacientes con esta afección. Método: Se revisó la literatura en PUBMED/Medline e Infomed con las palabras clave: fístula, traqueoesofágica, fístula traqueoesofágica, postintubación y las correspondientes en inglés. Se revisaron las referencias bibliográficas de los artículos en busca de publicaciones relevantes. Se escogieron, preferentemente, trabajos prospectivos. Los informes de casos sólo se tomaron en cuenta cuando hacían referencia a alguna técnica novedosa. Desarrollo: Se encontraron 4260 artículos en Medline/Pubmed y 17 en Infomed. No se encontraron ensayos clínicos, metanálisis, ni revisiones sistemáticas. La mayoría de los artículos revisados hacen referencia a presentación de casos y algunos fueron estudios retrospectivos. Las presentaciones de casos se usaron solo si describían una técnica novedosa. Conclusiones: La intubación endotraqueal prolongada es la causa principal de FTEs. La patogenia se asocia con isquemia secundaria a compresión de las paredes traqueal posterior yesofágica anterior, entre el manguito insuflado del tubo endotraqueal y la sonda nasogástrica. El tratamiento conservador, generalmente, no cura la fístula, pero puede limitar la contaminación del árbol traqueobronquial y garantiza la nutrición. La derivación esofágica raramente está indicada, excepto cuando persiste entrada a la VR del contenido gastrointestinal. Actualmente, el tratamiento definitivo es la sutura esofágica y, en la mayoría de los casos, la resección y anastomosis traqueal(AU)

Introduction: Post-intubation tracheoesophageal fistulae are severe lesions with high frequency of complication and high rate of mortality. Objective: To update the knowledge about the diagnosis and treatment of patients with this disease. Method: Literature review made in PUBMEDF/Medline and Infomed using the keywords: fistula, traqueoesophageal, tracheoesophageal fistula, and post-intubation in Spanish and English. References of articles were also reviewed to find out relevant publications. Prospective papers were particularly chosen. The case reports were only taken into account when they made reference to some novel technique. Results: In this search, 4260 articles were found in Medline/Pubmed and 17 in Infomed databases. No clinical assays, meta-analysis or systematic reviews were found. Most of the articles made reference to case reports and some to retrospective studies. The case reports were only used if they described a novel technique. Conclusions: Prolonged endotracheal intubation is the main cause of traqueoesophageal fistula. The pathogeny is associated to ischemia secondary to compression of posterior tracheal wall and anterior esophageal wall between the inflated cuff of the endotracheal tube and the nasogastric probe. In general, the conservative treatment does not cure the fistula but may restrict contamination of the tracheobronchial tree and guarantee nutrition. The esophageal shunt is rarely indicated, except when the gastrointestinal content continues entering into the VR. At present, the definitive treatment is the esophageal suturing and in most of cases, the resection and tracheal anastomosis(AU)

Factores que influyen en los resultados de fístula traqueoinnominada I / Influential factors in the results of traqueoinnonate fistula I

Introducción: La fístula traqueoinnominada, aunque poco frecuente, constituye una amenaza potencial para la vida, si no es reconocida y tratada oportunamente. Objetivo: Describir los resultados obtenidos e identificar las acciones que permitan identificarlos. Métodos: Se realizó el estudio retrospectivo, sobre una base de datos prospectiva de pacientes con fístulas traqueonominadas tratados entre 1991 y 2013. Los enfermos se clasificaron según la operación previa: traqueostomía, uso de tubo en T en reintervenciones con intensión de resecar el segmento traqueal estenótico. La revisión de la patogenia y de los métodos diagnósticos permitirán una mejor comprensión para enfrentar esta temible complicación. Se analizan los factores que pudieron influenciar los resultados. Resultados: Cuatro pacientes pertenecían al sexo femenino. Dos tenían una traqueostomía, dos fueron reoperados después de tratamiento con tubo en T; a uno se le realizó resección y anastomosis traqueal y en el otro no fue posible porque se produjo lesión puntiforme traqueal durante la disección mediastinal. Al último se le había colocado un tubo en T, mediante traqueofisura. En dos de tres pacientes, el sangrado centinela se interpretó incorrectamente. En el primero, se consideró que era la consecuencia del tratamiento anticoagulante y en el segundo no se dio valor a la pequeña cantidad de sangre en los esputos. Conclusiones: Un alto índice de sospecha, el diagnóstico temprano y las medidas al pie de la cama: compresión digital y colocación de un tubo ET o una cánula de traqueostomía con el manguito hiperinsuflado, constituyen la única esperanza para estos pacientes(AU)

Introduction: The tracheoinnominate fistula, though a rare entity, is a potential life threat if it is not promptly recognized and treated. Objective: To analyze the influential factors in the results of tracheoinnominate fistula I. Methods: Retrospective study supported on the prospective databases from patients with tracheoinnominate fistulae, who had been treated from 1991 to 2013. They were classified according to their previous surgery: tracheostomy, use of a T-tube or re-interventions aimed at resecting the stenotic tracheal segment. The review of pathogeny and of diagnostic methods allowed a better understanding to face this severe complication. The factors that could have an impact on the results were also analyzed. Results: Four patients were women. Two patients had undergone tracheostomy; two had been reoperated after treatment with T-tube; resection and tracheal anastomosis were performed in one of them but these procedures were not possible to be applied to the other because of a punctiform tracheal lesion during the mediastinal dissection. A T-tube had been placed in this last patient through tracheofissure. The sentinel bleeding in two of three patients was not properly evaluated. In one of them, the bleeding was considered to be the result of anticoagulant treatment whereas in the other, the small amount of blood in the sputum was underassessed. Conclusions: High amount of suspicion, early diagnosis and application of bedside measures such as digital compression, placement of a T-tube or a tracheostomy cannula with overinflated cuff are the only hopeful options for these patients(AU)

Cuidados de las fístulas traqueoesofágicas postintubación / Care of the post-intubation tracheoesophageal fistulae

RESUMEN Introducción: Las fístulas traqueoesofágicas posintubación son lesiones graves que presentan alta frecuencia de complicaciones y mortalidad. Objetivo: Actualizar el diagnóstico y tratamiento de pacientes con esta afección. Método: Se revisó la literatura en PUBMED/Medline e Infomed con las palabras clave: fístula, traqueoesofágica, fístula traqueoesofágica, postintubación y las correspondientes en inglés. Se revisaron las referencias bibliográficas de los artículos en busca de publicaciones relevantes. Se escogieron, preferentemente, trabajos prospectivos. Los informes de casos sólo se tomaron en cuenta cuando hacían referencia a alguna técnica novedosa. Desarrollo: Se encontraron 4260 artículos en Medline/Pubmed y 17 en Infomed. No se encontraron ensayos clínicos, metanálisis, ni revisiones sistemáticas. La mayoría de los artículos revisados hacen referencia a presentación de casos y algunos fueron estudios retrospectivos. Las presentaciones de casos se usaron solo si describían una técnica novedosa. Conclusiones: La intubación endotraqueal prolongada es la causa principal de FTEs. La patogenia se asocia con isquemia secundaria a compresión de las paredes traqueal posterior yesofágica anterior, entre el manguito insuflado del tubo endotraqueal y la sonda nasogástrica. El tratamiento conservador, generalmente, no cura la fístula, pero puede limitar la contaminación del árbol traqueobronquial y garantiza la nutrición. La derivación esofágica raramente está indicada, excepto cuando persiste entrada a la VR del contenido gastrointestinal. Actualmente, el tratamiento definitivo es la sutura esofágica y, en la mayoría de los casos, la resección y anastomosis traqueal(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Post-intubation tracheoesophageal fistulae are severe lesions with high frequency of complication and high rate of mortality. Objective: To update the knowledge about the diagnosis and treatment of patients with this disease. Method: Literature review made in PUBMEDF/Medline and Infomed using the keywords: fistula, traqueoesophageal, tracheoesophageal fistula, and post-intubation in Spanish and English. References of articles were also reviewed to find out relevant publications. Prospective papers were particularly chosen. The case reports were only taken into account when they made reference to some novel technique. Results: In this search, 4260 articles were found in Medline/Pubmed and 17 in Infomed databases. No clinical assays, meta-analysis or systematic reviews were found. Most of the articles made reference to case reports and some to retrospective studies. The case reports were only used if they described a novel technique. Conclusions: Prolonged endotracheal intubation is the main cause of traqueoesophageal fistula. The pathogeny is associated to ischemia secondary to compression of posterior tracheal wall and anterior esophageal wall between the inflated cuff of the endotracheal tube and the nasogastric probe. In general, the conservative treatment does not cure the fistula but may restrict contamination of the tracheobronchial tree and guarantee nutrition. The esophageal shunt is rarely indicated, except when the gastrointestinal content continues entering into the VR. At present, the definitive treatment is the esophageal suturing and in most of cases, the resection and tracheal anastomosis(AU)

Factores que influyen en los resultados de fístula traqueoinnominada I / Influential factors in the results of traqueoinnonate fistula I

Introducción: La fístula traqueoinnominada, aunque poco frecuente, constituye una amenaza potencial para la vida, si no es reconocida y tratada oportunamente. Objetivo: Describir los resultados obtenidos e identificar las acciones que permitan identificarlos. Métodos: Se realizó el estudio retrospectivo, sobre una base de datos prospectiva de pacientes con fístulas traqueonominadas tratados entre 1991 y 2013. Los enfermos se clasificaron según la operación previa: traqueostomía, uso de tubo en T en reintervenciones con intensión de resecar el segmento traqueal estenótico. La revisión de la patogenia y de los métodos diagnósticos permitirán una mejor comprensión para enfrentar esta temible complicación. Se analizan los factores que pudieron influenciar los resultados. Resultados: Cuatro pacientes pertenecían al sexo femenino. Dos tenían una traqueostomía, dos fueron reoperados después de tratamiento con tubo en T; a uno se le realizó resección y anastomosis traqueal y en el otro no fue posible porque se produjo lesión puntiforme traqueal durante la disección mediastinal. Al último se le había colocado un tubo en T, mediante traqueofisura. En dos de tres pacientes, el sangrado centinela se interpretó incorrectamente. En el primero, se consideró que era la consecuencia del tratamiento anticoagulante y en el segundo no se dio valor a la pequeña cantidad de sangre en los esputos. Conclusiones: Un alto índice de sospecha, el diagnóstico temprano y las medidas al pie de la cama: compresión digital y colocación de un tubo ET o una cánula de traqueostomía con el manguito hiperinsuflado, constituyen la única esperanza para estos pacientes(AU)

Introduction: The tracheoinnominate fistula, though a rare entity, is a potential life threat if it is not promptly recognized and treated. Objective: To analyze the influential factors in the results of tracheoinnominate fistula I. Methods: Retrospective study supported on the prospective databases from patients with tracheoinnominate fistulae, who had been treated from 1991 to 2013. They were classified according to their previous surgery: tracheostomy, use of a T-tube or re-interventions aimed at resecting the stenotic tracheal segment. The review of pathogeny and of diagnostic methods allowed a better understanding to face this severe complication. The factors that could have an impact on the results were also analyzed. Results: Four patients were women. Two patients had undergone tracheostomy; two had been reoperated after treatment with T-tube; resection and tracheal anastomosis were performed in one of them but these procedures were not possible to be applied to the other because of a punctiform tracheal lesion during the mediastinal dissection. A T-tube had been placed in this last patient through tracheofissure. The sentinel bleeding in two of three patients was not properly evaluated. In one of them, the bleeding was considered to be the result of anticoagulant treatment whereas in the other, the small amount of blood in the sputum was underassessed. Conclusions: High amount of suspicion, early diagnosis and application of bedside measures such as digital compression, placement of a T-tube or a tracheostomy cannula with overinflated cuff are the only hopeful options for these patients(AU)

Endoscopic closure of tracheoesophageal fistula for tuberculosis with an over-the-scope-clip.

Surgical management has been the main approach for enteral fistulae. This approach is usually complex due to comorbidities, a wasted nutritional state and anatomical difficulties related to prior multiple interventions. Therefore, endoscopic methods such as clips, self-expanding metal stent (SEMS) and recently, the over scope clip (OTSC®) are increasing in popularity and use. Herein, we present the case of a patient with a HIV infection who was admitted due to respiratory symptoms. Radiological and microbiological studies documented a tracheoesophageal fistula due to tuberculosis (TB) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. Therefore, an esophageal fully-covered stent was placed, which migrated into the stomach. The thoracic surgeons considered an esophagectomy with gastric ascent and muscle patch in the trachea. However, due to his poor nutritional status and comorbidity, an OTSC was placed to treat the fistulae. The patient also received medical treatment with anti-tuberculotics and anti-retrovirals.