Transpleural versus extrapleural approach in treatment of esophageal atresia

Abstract

Abstract Background Surgery is the only curative treatment of patients with esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula. A lot of surgeons recommend transpleural repair while others prefer extrapleural approach for repair. This study will evaluate the differences, advantages, outcome, and the disadvantages of the two techniques. Results Duration of surgery was significantly shorter in the group operated by transpleural approach. The incidence of pneumothorax was higher in patients operated by transpleural approach. Conclusion Operating esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula by transpleural approach has significantly shorter time of surgery, but there is no difference between the two groups as regards incidence of leakage or mortality.