Musculoskeletal outcomes following thoracoscopic versus conventional open repair of esophageal atresia: A systematic review and meta-analysis from pediatric surgery meta-analysis (PESMA) study group

Thoracic musculoskeletal deformities are a recognized long-term complication after esophageal atresia (EA) repair. Although evidence remains limited, thoracoscopic repair (TR) is thought to reduce morbidity compared to conventional open repair (COR), with potential benefits including earlier recovery, reduced pain, improved cosmesis, and fewer musculoskeletal sequelae. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the incidence of musculoskeletal deformities following EA repair via TR versus COR, emphasizing their long-term clinical implications.