A Case Report of Congenital Oesophageal Atresia with Tracheo-Oesophageal Fistula and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Introduction Congenital oesophageal atresia (COA) refers to a congenitally interrupted oesophagus. It is commonly referred to in the literature as oesophageal atresia (OA) with or without tracheo oesophageal fistula (TOF) but acquired TOF is a different entity. Case Report We present a case of OA with TOF which was not suspected antenatally despite the presence of polyhydramnios. The baby presented with respiratory distress and excessive oral secretions at the age of 3-hours following initiation of breastfeeding. Thorascopic repair was performed on the second day of life. The pre-, intra- and post-operative course was smooth with no major challenges. There was no associated anomalies in our case following thorough systemic evaluation including brain ultrasound, abdominal ultrasound, skeletal survey, ophthalmic assessment and echocardiography. Conclusion This case demonstrates the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for OA when faced with a combination of respiratory distress and persistent frothy oral secretions in a newborn. The antenatal and postnatal diagnostic approaches are discussed with highlights of associated anomalies and pre-operative assessment and management.