Evaluation of mid- and long-term quality of life in patients operated on for esophageal atresia

The better emotional functioning in the 8-17 age group supports their enhanced anxiety management. Sex, gestational age, or presence of an anastomotic stricture did not impact quality of life. While differences existed between patient age groups in the questionnaires administered, factors like anatomical EA type, repair mode, low birth weight, tracheomalacia, frequent lung infections, presence of associated vertebral, anorectal, cardiac, renal, limb anomalies and/or hydrocephalus (VACTERL-H), gastrostomy placement, and surgical interventions other than EA significantly influenced patients' quality of life. These findings may guide implementing measures to enhance quality of life in EA patients.