Research

Research into oesophageal atresia

Since its inception in 1981, OARA has supported a number of research projects into the condition of oesophageal atresia, as well as donated funds to purchase various equipment for the Royal Children's Hospital such as ultra thin gastroscopes, ph meters, computers, printers and prams for the Neo-natal ward.

Listed below are some of the projects which O.A.R.A has been only too pleased to support.

However should you wish to access further related information and other research into oesophageal atresia you can use the Royal Children's Hospital (Melbourne) on-line library.

Research projects supported by O.A.R.A

1. Long-term follow-up of adults who survived repair of congenital oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal fistula, led by Dr. Philip Chetcuti.

This was a unique and comprehensive study as it examined the health of adults who were born with OA. The project led to the publication of several papers, all the result of the research endeavours, particularly of Dr. Philip Chetcuti.

Chetcuti P, Myers NA, Phelan PD, Beasley SW. Adults who survived repair of congenital oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal fistula. Brit Med J 1988, 297: 344-346.

Chetcuti P, Phelan PD, Beasley SW, Myers NA, Dickens DRV. Chest wall deformity in patients with repaired oesophageal atresia. J Pediatric Surgery 1989, 23: 244-7.

Chetcuti P, Dickens DRV, Phelan P D. Spinal deformity in patients born with oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal fistula. Arch Dis Childh 1989, 64: 1427-30.

Chetcuti P, Phelan P & Greenwood R. Lung function abnormalities in repaired oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal fistula. Thorax 1992, 47: 1030-4.

Chetcuti P & Phelan PD. Gastrointestinal morbidity following repair of oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal fistula. Arch Dis Childh 1993, 68: 163-6.

Chetcuti P & Phelan PD. Respiratory morbidity following repair of oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal fistula. Arch Dis Childh 1993, 68: 167-70.

2. Neonatal study. Professor Mary Ellen Wohl's study, specifically related to babies with repaired diaphragmatic hernia.

3. The Genetics of oesophageal atresia

An extensive study of the genetics of oesophageal atresia - carried out by Dr Agnes Bankier and Ms Jocelyn Brady (research assistant).

4. Computerisation of oesophageal atresia data

This is an on-going project which commenced in 1995 and has recently been revitalised. This comprehensive data base is now known as the Nate Myers Oesophageal Atresia Database, and is currently being upgraded.

5. Study on the aetiology and morphological changes in oesophageal atresia and the VATER association using a rat model.

Last Updated 10-Sep-2008. Authorised by: Brian Mallon. Enquiries: Rodney Cole.