Omental Flap Provides Definitive Management for Pediatric Patient With Multiple Tracheoesophageal Fistula Recurrences

Abstract

A term female infant with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) and esophageal atresia (EA) underwent primary operative repair that failed with 3 TEF recurrences, which all presented with feeding and respiratory issues. Recurrences were managed with reoperation and an interpositional flap of pleura and a flap of intercostal muscle on 2 separate occasions. The third recurrence was managed with complete dissection of the esophagus prior to the division of the fistula and the interposition of an omental flap between the esophageal and tracheal repair. We present the use of a viable omental flap and complete esophageal mobilization to prevent subsequent TEF recurrences and avoid the additional morbidity of reconstructive surgery.