[Choanal atresia: an abnormality not to be overlooked. Study of three cases in the University Hospital Center of Lome, Togo].

Choanal atresia is an uncommon congenital malformation which the midwife or obstetrician must recognize at birth. In this report the authors describe three cases observed at the University Hospital Center of Lome, Togo, in which diagnosis was made late, i.e. at the ages of 7 days, 13 days and 8 months. Atresia identified by rhinoscopy was bilateral in one case and unilateral in two cases. All three cases were treated by transnasal divulsion, using a rubber catheter in 2 cases and a curette in one case, followed by calibration with a Portex catheter that was removed after two months. At 6 months after treatment, all three children presented normal nasal ventilation. Since it can be easily diagnosed and treated, choanal atresia is curable and better training is needed to ensure detection at birth.