tracheoesophageal fistula/atresia

Introduction

A fistula connecting the trachea with the esophagus.

Etiology

• congenital (tracheoesophageal atresia)
• acquired

Epidemiology

• most cases diagnosed immediately after birth or during infancy
• rare cases may present in adulthood

Complications

• pulmonary aspiration
• comorbid developmental anomalies

Management

• endotracheal intubation with endotracheal tube place distal to fistula
• surgery
  • delay repair in infants with low birth weight, pneumonia, or other major anomalies
  • parenteral nutrition, gastrostomy, suction awaiting surgery

More general terms

• esophageal fistula
• tracheal fistula