The History and Legacy of the Foker Process for the Treatment of Long Gap Esophageal Atresia
Topic overview
This article chronicles the Foker process, a groundbreaking surgical technique introduced in 1997 that uses traction-induced growth to enable primary esophageal repair in long gap esophageal atresia cases. The method transformed treatment options for children who previously faced esophageal replacement or lifelong gastrostomy dependence.
Key takeaways
- Long gap esophageal atresia historically required esophageal replacement or lifelong gastrostomy feeding before 1997.
- The Foker process uses traction-induced growth to lengthen esophageal segments that are too far apart for primary repair.
- Pledgeted sutures on both pouches connect to an external traction system that is serially tightened over time.
- Tension-induced growth enables delayed primary esophageal anastomosis without need for replacement conduits.
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How to cite: GlobalCastMD. The History and Legacy of the Foker Process for the Treatment of Long Gap Esophageal Atresia. GlobalCastMD Medical Library. 2023-12-19. https://library.globalcastmd.com/article/8262
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