Evolving Surgical Practices in Esophageal Atresia: Insights from the EUPSA-ERNICA Survey a Decade After the 2014 Baseline Study

dx.doi.org

The European Paediatric Surgeons' Association (EUPSA) and the European Reference Network for Rare Inherited and Congenital Anomalies (ERNICA) conducted a survey to assess the current surgical management and care practices for esophageal atresia (EA) in order to assess changes over the past decade.An online survey consisting of 56 questions was administered to EUPSA members and ERNICA representatives between March and September 2025. The questionnaire covered seven domains: center structure, preoperative assessment, surgical management of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula (EA-TEF) patients and long-gap EA, postoperative care, long-term follow-up, and the management of complications. Results were compared to practices reported in a previous EUPSA Network Office survey in 2013.There were a total of 202 respondents from 41 countries with 60% from European Union countries. Compared with previous surveys, the routine use of preoperative bronchoscopy and the use of trans-anastomotic tubes were found to be significantly more common (both p

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Article · Feb 2026 · 1 min read

In brief

A 2025 EUPSA-ERNICA survey of 202 respondents across 41 countries reveals evolving practices in esophageal atresia management over the past decade. Key findings show significant increases in routine preoperative bronchoscopy and trans-anastomotic tube use compared to 2013 baseline data.

Preoperative bronchoscopy is now routinely used more frequently in EA management compared to a decade ago (statistically significant increase).
Trans-anastomotic tube placement has become significantly more common in current EA surgical practice versus 2013 baseline.
Survey captured evolving practices across 202 respondents from 41 countries, with 60% from EU centers, enabling robust international comparison.
Study provides decade-long trend data on EA-TEF surgical techniques, postoperative care protocols, and complication management approaches.
EUPSA-ERNICA collaboration establishes updated benchmarks for preoperative assessment, surgical technique, and long-term follow-up in rare congenital anomalies.

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