Comparing Symptoms, Lung Function, Muscle Strength, Exercise Ability, and Frailty in Children with Esophageal Atresia and Healthy Children

What this Trial Is About

Esophageal atresia is the most common birth defect affecting the esophagus, caused by abnormal development before birth. Children with this condition may face various challenges including structural problems, respiratory issues, frequent infections, and reduced physical activity, which can impact their lung function, muscle strength, exercise ability, posture, motor skills, and quality of life. This research aims to compare these physical characteristics and health measures between children with esophageal atresia and healthy children. This observational study involves two groups children with esophageal atresia and healthy children, all aged 6 to 18 years. There is no intervention or treatment given instead, participants undergo various assessments. These include tests for lung function, muscle strength, exercise capacity, posture, motor function, physical activity level, fatigue, frailty, and quality of life. The main evaluation happens on the first day, with exercise capacity reassessed one week later. Participants will be involved in a series of tests and measurements such as forced vital capacity, peak expiratory flow, body composition, muscle strength tests, motor function assessments, and questionnaires about fatigue and quality of life. Researchers will monitor and compare these outcomes to understand differences between children with esophageal atresia and healthy peers. The study spans from initial assessments to a follow-up exercise capacity test one week afterward, allowing detailed observation of physical health and function.

Symptoms, Pulmonary Function, Muscle Strength, Exercise Capacity, and Frailty in Esophageal Atresia vs. Healthy Peers