Scoliosis after thoracotomy repair of esophageal atresia: a systematic review

Systematic review of 1338 children shows scoliosis develops in approximately 13% of patients after thoracotomy repair of esophageal atresia/TEF, with curvature typically convex to the left. Most cases are mild and do not require intervention, though 10 patients underwent spinal surgery. Uncertainty remains whether thoracoscopic techniques can prevent this complication.