A retrospective analysis of alimentary tract duplications in pediatric patients: a 14-year single-center experience

Purpose: Alimentary tract duplications (ATDs) are rare congenital lesions often associated with anomalies such as spinal, urinary and GI tract malformations. The purpose of this study was to report the experience of a single center with ATDs in children, focusing on the natural history, associated malformations, and their impact on patient management. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis over 14 years, collecting prenatal, clinical, surgical, and follow-up data. We focus on associated anomalies prenatal and postnatal management, and outcomes. Results: Sixty-three patients with ATD (thirty-six females, twenty-seven males, aged 1 day to 14 years) were enrolled in this study. Prenatal diagnosis was made in 22 patients (35%), of whom 8 showed compression signs. Elective surgery was performed at a mean age of 1.5 years in prenatally diagnosed cases. The others presented symptoms at a mean age of 5.2 years (55.5%) or were detected incidentally (9.5%) at a mean age of 10.7 years. In four patients (6.3%), we identified multiple duplications, and ten cases (15.8%) were found with associated anomalies. Conclusion: The wide spectrum of clinical appearance of ATDs and a comprehensive knowledge of human embryology might define surgical management, which should always be patient-tailored and respectful of the child’s development.