Abstract:

Aim: Esophageal burns as a result of accidental swallowing of caustic material are seen frequently in children. Accidental ingestion of corrosive substances remains a major health hazard in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the management of our 319 padiatric cases of corrosive substance ingestion retrospectively.Material and methods: We retrospectively analyzed the management of 319 padiatric cases of corrosive substance ingestion in whom initial management consisted of prompt endoscopy. There were 201 male and 118 female patients, age ranges between 1 month to 13 years. Treatment protocols were chosen according to the initial endoscopic evaluation. Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) was investigated in patients who needed esophageal dilatation programme for more than 6 months.Results: 148 patients (%46) were found to have esophageal burns and 55 (37%) of them underwent treatment for stricture formation. Patients with grade 2b and 3a injuries in endoscopic evaluation needed prolonged dilatations. Severe GER and abnormal pH monitorization results were noted in 41% of these patients. Delayed acid clearence was noted in all patients who needed prolonged dilatations..Conclusion: Esophageal stricture was noted in 17% of the patients after corrosive substance ingestion. Gastroesophageal reflux was frequently encountered after the development of severe stricture and prolonged esophageal dilatations. These results indicated that disturbances of motility and GER are frequent sequelae of caustic burns of the esophagus. Treatment modality should include the treatment of the gastroesophageal reflux, and esophageal motility disorders

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