Thoracoscopic resection of congenital esophageal stenosis.

Congenital esophageal stenosis (CES) is rare and usually manifests in infants as dysphagia, failure to thrive, and food impaction. Dilatation is considered to be the first-line therapy for CES, but the incidence of complications (perforation and mediastinitis) is relatively high. We report two cases of CES treated by thoracoscopic resection without prior dilatation. Both infants recovered without recurrent stenosis and were able to eat solid food soon after surgery. One had postoperative gastroesophageal reflux and eventually required fundoplication. Thoracoscopic resection could be a valid option for CES.