Malnutrition and Feeding Problems in Children with Esophageal Atresia

Introduction: Esophageal atresia (EA) with or without tracheoesophageal fistula is a congenital malformation characterized by the interruption or obstruction of the esophagus. Neonates affected by EA may present with cyanosis during breastfeeding, sialorrhea, coughing, and respiratory difficulty. EA requires surgical treatment; otherwise, the condition could become life-threatening. Data is scarce regarding the long-term nutritional problems of children with EA. The present study aimed to assess the growth status and nutritional difficulties in children with EA. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 32 children with EA during 2007-2016. The nutritional status and feeding problems of the patients were assessed using a questionnaire. Results: The most common EA-associated complications were esophageal stricture (84.4%), dysphagia (46.9%), gastroesophageal reflux disease (37.5%), and respiratory infections (25%). The majority of the patients had normal growth parameters, and 96.9% experienced at least one complication or feeding problem associated with EA, including the need to drink water to swallow food (25%), coughing while feeding (34.4%), vomiting (12.5%), and abdominal pain (34.4%). However, no significant associations were observed between feeding problems and growth parameters. Conclusion: Feeding problems are relatively common in children with EA. Therefore, nutritional consultations must be provided to these patients in order to prevent and mitigate these problems.