Prospective evaluation of clinical outcomes and quality of life after gastric tube interposition as esophageal reconstruction in children

Few studies on gastric tube interposition for esophageal reconstruction in children have assessed the long-term outcomes and quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study is to evaluate the long-term outcomes and QoL after a gastric tube interposition by reviewing our experiences with esophageal reconstruction. Twenty-six patients were included who underwent gastric tube interposition from 1996 to 2011 at our institution. We reviewed the medical records and conducted telephone surveys, prospectively performed esophagography, endoscopy, 24-hour pH monitoring, and esophageal manometry. The median follow-up period of 12 (range, 3–18) years. Median age at the time of surgery and survey were 9 (range, 2–50) months and 12.4 (range, 3.1–19.0) years, respectively. There were 14 cases of reoperation of gross type C and B esophageal atresia (EA) and 10 cases of long gap pure EA. The z scores of anthropometric data at the survey did not increase after the operation. Severe stricture in esophagography was observed in 20% of patients, but improved with balloon dilation with intact passage. Gastroesophageal reflux was able to be treated with medications. Esophageal peristalsis was observed in 1 of 8 patients in manometry. No Barrett esophagus or metaplasia was not found from endoscopy. QoL was similar to the general population and did not differ between age groups. Gastric tube interposition could be considered for esophageal reconstruction in pediatric patients when native esophageal anastomosis is impossible. Nutritional evaluation and support with consecutive radiological evaluation to assess the anastomosis site stricture are advised.