The appearance and significance of extrapleural fluid after esophageal atresia repair.

Abstract

The objective is to describe the appearance and evaluate the significance of postoperative extrapleural fluid collections in neonates who have undergone esophageal atresia repair in which an extrapleural surgical approach was used. Extrapleural effusion in a neonate who has undergone repair of esophageal atresia by an extrapleural approach is associated with a high incidence of anastomotic leakage. Such patients may also be at increased risk for developing a delayed esophageal stricture. On chest radiography, these extrapleural effusions look like fluid in the pleural space.