Thoracoscopy vs. thoracotomy for the repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Systematic review comparing thoracoscopic versus open thoracotomy approaches for EA/TEF repair found no significant differences in complication rates, anastomotic leaks, or stricture formation, though thoracoscopy required longer operative time. Both techniques demonstrate comparable safety profiles with low mortality (3.2%), supporting thoracoscopy as a viable alternative to traditional open repair.