A safer way of suturing in Foker's technique

Abstract

Background/purpose: Foker's technique allows esophageal lengthening facilitating end to end anastomosis in long gap esophageal atresia. The problem faced with this technique is that the traction sutures cut through the tissues leading to re-operations. Our aim was to find a technique of suturing that will prevent the sutures from cutting through the esophagus.

Methods: After dissection of the upper and lower esophageal pouches, purse string sutures were placed, two each on both pouches. Clips were applied at the ends of both the pouches. Sutures were brought out on the posterior chest wall and traction applied. This was tried in a total of three cases. Case 1 was a newborn with pure esophageal atresia, Case 2 was an eighteen month old child with cervical esophagostomy and gastrostomy, and Case 3 had esophageal atresia with distal fistula. Two cases were done thoracoscopically and the third one by thoracotomy.

Results: In all three cases sutures held and lengthening could be obtained. In the first case it took twelve days, in the second case six days, and in third case eight days for the ends to come together.

Conclusion: This modification of traction sutures is simple and reduces the risk of suture disruption.

Keywords: Esophageal atresia; Esophageal lengthening; Foker technique; Long gap atresia; Thoracoscopy.