Unintentional Suture Fistula Between the Proximal and Distal Esophagus in a Preterm Neonate with Type C Esophageal Atresia

Abstract

We present the case of a patient with Gross type C esophageal atresia in a preterm neonate (gestational age 31+1) with a birth-weight of 1470 grams. The fistula was released via a thoracotomy, but no primary anastomosis could be made, due to an unexpected long gap. The distal esophagus was closed and approximated to the blind pouch using traction sutures until an adjacent position was reached. A gastrostomy was created for enteral feeding. Although a second attempt to make an anastomosis was unsuccessful, the patient unexpectedly developed a suture fistula six weeks after the first procedure, enabling feeding via a nasogastric tube. Over time, six dilations were necessary. Full enteral feeding was achieved at the age of six months. Our case confirms sparse reports that deliberately creating a suture fistula may be a solution in esophageal atresia patients when an unexpected long gap prohibits a primary anastomosis.