Tracheoesophageal fistula

A congenital or acquired abnormal connection between the trachea and esophagus

Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is an abnormal connection (fistula) between the trachea and the esophagus. This condition can be congenital, meaning it is present at birth, or acquired later in life. TEF is often associated with esophageal atresia, a condition where the esophagus does not form properly.

Types

Tracheoesophageal fistulas are classified into several types based on their anatomical presentation:

• Type A: Esophageal atresia with no fistula.
• Type B: Esophageal atresia with a proximal fistula.
• Type C: Esophageal atresia with a distal fistula (most common).
• Type D: Esophageal atresia with both proximal and distal fistulas.
• Type E: H-type fistula, where the esophagus and trachea are connected by a fistula without atresia.

Diagram of tracheoesophageal fistula types

Causes

The exact cause of congenital tracheoesophageal fistula is not well understood, but it is believed to result from abnormal development of the trachea and esophagus during embryonic growth. Genetic and environmental factors may play a role. Acquired TEF can result from trauma, infection, or malignancy.

Symptoms

Symptoms of TEF can vary depending on the type and severity of the fistula. Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Coughing or choking during feeding
• Cyanosis (bluish skin color due to lack of oxygen)
• Recurrent pneumonia

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of TEF is typically made through imaging studies such as a chest X-ray, contrast esophagram, or bronchoscopy. Prenatal ultrasound may also detect associated anomalies.

Treatment

The primary treatment for tracheoesophageal fistula is surgical repair. The timing and type of surgery depend on the specific type of TEF and the presence of other anomalies. Postoperative care is crucial to ensure proper healing and to monitor for complications such as strictures or recurrent fistulas.

Prognosis

With advances in surgical techniques and neonatal care, the prognosis for infants with TEF has improved significantly. However, long-term follow-up is necessary to manage potential complications and associated conditions.

Related pages

• Esophageal atresia
• Congenital disorder
• Pediatric surgery

X-ray image showing an H-type tracheoesophageal fistula

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  Diagram showing types of tracheoesophageal fistula

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  Newborn with H-type tracheoesophageal fistula