Low gestational age is associated with less anastomotic complications after open primary repair of esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula

Retrospective study of 75 patients demonstrates that premature infants (<34 weeks gestation) undergoing primary repair of esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula have significantly lower rates of anastomotic complications compared to term infants, despite higher prematurity-related morbidity. Findings support feasibility and safety of primary reconstruction in preterm neonates.