Impact of VACTERL Association and Chromosomal Anomalies on Outcomes After Esophageal Atresia Repair: Insights from the EUPSA Registry

dx.doi.org

Although VACTERL association is a recognized entity in patients with esophageal atresia (EA), its impact on surgical outcomes remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of VACTERL association and chromosomal anomalies (VACTERL-CA) on the surgical outcomes of EA patients, offering novel insights into risk stratification.All patients enrolled in the European Pediatric Surgeons' Association (EUPSA) Esophageal Atresia Registry (EAR) between July 2014 and December 2017 were included. Patients were classified into two groups: those with VACTERL-CA and those without these anomalies (non-VACTERL). Groups were compared for demographics, associated malformations, surgical approach, complications, and outcomes.Among 372 patients, 22% (n = 82) were classified as VACTERL-CA. This group had significantly lower gestational age (35.9 weeks vs. 37.1 weeks, p = 0.004), birth weight (2,312 g vs. 2,663 g, p

dx.doi.org shows its articles on its own site.

Read the article on dx.doi.org ↗

Article · Oct 2025 · 1 min read

In brief

This registry study examines how VACTERL association and chromosomal anomalies affect surgical outcomes in esophageal atresia patients. Analysis of 372 cases from the EUPSA registry reveals that 22% had VACTERL-CA, with significantly lower gestational age and birth weight, providing evidence for improved risk stratification in this complex patient population.

22% of EA patients had VACTERL association or chromosomal anomalies, with lower gestational age and birth weight than isolated EA cases.
VACTERL-CA patients showed significantly different surgical outcomes, highlighting the need for tailored perioperative management strategies.
The EUPSA registry data (2014-2017) provides evidence-based risk stratification for EA repair based on associated anomalies.
Presence of VACTERL association or chromosomal anomalies should inform preoperative counseling and surgical planning in EA patients.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.

Read it at the source ↗