Multidimensional long-term outcomes after pediatric esophageal replacement following caustic injuries: a comparative study of two techniques

Objective This study aimed to compare multidimensional long-term outcomes between children who underwent colonic pedicled flap surgery versus gastric tube esophageal replacement in the mediastinum after caustic injuries. Methods This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in patients who were operated on during their childhood between 1989 and 2022. Patients completed a comprehensive assessment using Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Gastrointestinal Symptoms Scale (PedsQL GI), KIDSCREEN-52 for psychosocial dimensions, the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey, the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) scale and the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Results A total of 26 patients (aged 6–22 years with mean 14 years) were included. Among these, 17 had a colonic pedicled flap and 9 had a gastric tube. Mean operation-to-questionnaire interval was 8 years. No significant differences were observed between groups in PedsQL GI, SF-36 or 6MWT outcomes. Mean PedsQL GI scores indicated mild-to-moderate gastrointestinal symptoms, with lower scores in trouble swallowing and heartburn and reflux. Significant psychosocial disparities emerged in KIDSCREEN-52 with higher scores in psychological well-being ( p