Neurodevelopmental Outcomes and Long-term Quality of Life in Esophageal Atresia: A Narrative Review

jpedsurg.org

Esophageal atresia (EA) is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by esophageal discontinuity, frequently associated with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) and other congenital malformations. Advances in neonatal surgery, perioperative care, and critical care have substantially improved survival, shifting the focus to neurodevelopmental outcomes, long-term health, and quality of life—topics explored in this review. We summarize findings from original prospective and retrospective studies examining developmental trajectories, psychosocial outcomes, and quality of life.

jpedsurg.org shows its articles on its own site.

Read the article on jpedsurg.org ↗

Article · Apr 2026 · 1 min read

In brief

This narrative review examines neurodevelopmental outcomes and quality of life in patients with esophageal atresia, a rare congenital condition often accompanied by tracheoesophageal fistula. With improved survival rates from surgical and critical care advances, the focus has shifted to understanding long-term developmental trajectories and psychosocial well-being in this patient population.

Survival after EA/TEF repair has improved significantly, shifting focus to long-term neurodevelopmental and quality-of-life outcomes.
EA patients may experience developmental delays and psychosocial challenges requiring longitudinal multidisciplinary follow-up.
Quality of life assessment is now a critical endpoint in EA care, beyond traditional surgical success metrics.
Associated congenital anomalies in EA patients contribute to neurodevelopmental risk and require comprehensive screening.
Long-term surveillance protocols should address cognitive, behavioral, and psychosocial domains in EA survivors.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.

Read it at the source ↗