Developing a new predictor index of anastomotic fistula after anastomosis of esophageal atresia: preliminary results from a single center

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to determine a predictor of the risk of anastomotic fistula after anastomosis of esophageal atresia. MethodsThis article reviewed the clinical data of 74 children with esophageal atresia in our hospital. The risk factors of anastomotic fistula were analysed, and a new predictive index was proposed. ResultsThe incidence of anastomotic fistula was 29.7% in 74 children with esophageal atresia after anastomosis. Birth weight and gap length were risk factors for anastomotic fistula. Logistic regression analysis showed that birth weight (Wald 2 = 4.528, P = 0.033, OR = 0.273) was a protective factor for anastomotic fistula, whereas gap length (Wald 2 = 7.057, P = 0.008, OR = 2.388) was a risk factor for anastomotic fistula. The ratio of gap length to birth weight had a positive predictive effect on the occurrence of anastomotic fistula (AUC = 0.732, P = 0.002). ConclusionBirth weight and gap length are important predictors of anastomotic fistula in esophageal atresia. Measurement of the ratio of gap length to birth weight is a feasible predictor of anastomotic fistula after anastomosis of esophageal atresia.