Selective approach to preoperative echocardiography in esophageal atresia

This retrospective study of 115 neonates with esophageal atresia evaluated selective preoperative echocardiography strategies based on clinical examination and chest x-ray findings. A selective approach using absence of murmur, cyanosis, and abnormal respiratory findings achieved 97% negative predictive value, potentially reducing unnecessary echocardiograms by 22% while maintaining patient safety.