Unveiling tracheo-oesophageal fistula: The crucial role of imaging in the diagnosis and management.

UNLABELLED: Tracheo-oesophageal fistula (TOF) is a significant congenital anomaly characterised by an abnormal communication between the trachea and the oesophagus. Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial, but long-term outcomes depend on accurate imaging and postoperative monitoring. The article discusses the embryological basis, clinical presentation and various types of TOF with their imaging techniques. Immediate and long-term postoperative complications are also discussed. Recent advances such as Ultrashort Echo Time (UTE), MRI and the Oesophageal Anastomotic Stricture Index (OASI) have expanded the capabilities of imaging in predicting surgical outcomes and guiding follow-up.

CONTRIBUTION: This review highlights the pivotal role of imaging in the diagnosis, classification, surgical planning and follow-up of TOF, focusing on current and emerging modalities.