A simple technique of oblique anastomosis can prevent stricture formation in primary repair of esophageal atresia.

BACKGROUND Anastomotic stricture is an important problem after esophageal atresia (EA) repair. This study evaluates a technique of oblique esophageal anastomosis without use of a flap in order to prevent stricture formation. METHODS Medical records of 16 patients (14 with EA type III and 2 with EA type IV Ladd-Gross classification) who underwent primary repair of EA at birth without anastomotic tension were reviewed, evaluating long-term follow-up results. All patients were studied with esophageal contrast study, pH-multichannel intraluminal impedance, and endoscopy. The incidence of complications and their management were analysed. RESULTS Contrast esophagogram and esophagoscopy always showed regular patency of the suture line. CONCLUSIONS Our technique of oblique anastomosis is simple, safe, and effective in preventing stricture formation even in the long-term follow-up.