8/27/2014 e.Proofing http://eproofing.springer.com/journals/printpage.php?token=BVH4BDiSblD7QmD9ibyNlUxmf1dBjzcMYhtVqbiFMWM 1/16 Thoracoscopic repair of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula in neonates: the current state of the art Steven Rothenberg Email steverberg@aol.com Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children, Denver, CO, USA Abstract The first thoracoscopic esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula (EATEF) repair was performed in March of 2000. This report evaluates the results and evolution of the technique over the last decade. Thoracoscopic esophageal atresia repair has proven to be an effective and safe technique. Initial experience resulted in a higher stricture rate but this improved with experience and changes in technique over the last decade. The outcomes are similar to or superior to that of an open thoracotomy and avoid the musculoskeletal morbidity associated with that technique. AQ1 Keywords Tracheoesophageal fistula Esophageal atresia Thoracoscopy Introduction Esophageal atresia (EA) with or without a tracheoesophageal (TEF) fistula is one of the rarer congenital anomalies occurring in one in 3,000 births. Traditionally these patients have presented shortly after birth because of an inability to pass an orogastric tube, respiratory distress, or an inability to 1,* 1