Tracheoesophageal fistula (tra·cheo·esoph·a·ge·al - fis·tu·la) is a rare congenital (present at birth) defect. When an infant has a tracheoesophageal fistula, there are one or more abnormal connections between the child’s esophagus and trachea. The infant usually has problems with swallowing and eating.
Overview
What is a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF)?
The tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) allows liquid and stomach acid from the esophagus to pass to the trachea, causing pneumonia and other complications. Many newborns with tracheoesophageal fistula also have congenital heart defects, kidney and urinary tract problems and muscular or skeletal problems.
Types
What are the different types of tracheoesophageal fistulas?
There are five catagories of tracheoesophageal fistulas (TFE). Type C is the most common.
Signs and Symptoms
What are the signs and symptoms of a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF)?
Doctors usually note signs of tracheoesophageal fistula soon after birth.
Symptoms include:
Cough or choke upon feeding
Difficulty breathing
Distended abdomen
Frothy, white bubbles in their mouths
Diagnosis
How is a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) diagnosed?
Imaging studies often can detect tracheoesophageal fistula.
Treatment
How is a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) treated?
Newborns with a tracheoesophageal fistula require surgery to repair the connections between the esophagus and trachea and prevent complications. Some infants require multiple surgeries.
