Esophageal atresia and tracheo-esophageal fistula: a review.

The improved survival of neonates with esophageal atresia and tracheo-esophageal fistula reflects the advancement in neonatal care and anaesthesia over the years. Chick embryo studies have given new insights in the embryopathy of esophageal atresia. It is now apparent that the various types of esophageal atresia could be explained due to selective discrepancy in the growth of the 3 folds in the region of tracheo-esophageal separation. The early disturbances in organogenesis which result in esophageal atresia also lead to other associated anomalies, the incidence of which varies from 40 to 55%. These anomalies have an important bearing on the survival outcome. The physiological aspects of esophageal atresia such as esophageal dysmotility and gastro-esophageal reflux are also vital in the long term and proper treatment of the associated defects. The criteria for an ideal esophageal substitute in long gap esophageal atresia have been determined and several options are now available with good results, such as: gastric transposition, colon, gastric tube and small intestine. IN developing countries, however, a high mortality is still attributed to late referrals, low birth weight, hypothermia and chest infection.