esophageal atresia

Introduction An esophageal atresia is a congenital malformation (atresia) of the esophagus, which is known as the esophagus in medical terminology. In this case, an interruption in the continuity of the esophagus occurs. This interruption of continuity can have different lengths. The length is usually given in centimeters or in the number of vertebral body … Esophageal Atresia

Occurrence Esophageal atresia is a congenital malformation that is associated with a frequency of approximately 1 in 3500 live births worldwide. Boys are slightly more frequently affected than girls, at 60%. The most frequent manifestation of this is type III b according to Vogt, namely esophageal atresia with lower esophagotracheal fistula formation (the lower end … Occurrence | Esophageal Atresia

Symptoms There are certain prenatal (before birth) and postnatal (after birth) signs and symptoms that indicate the presence of esophageal atresia. Before birth, a so-called polyhydramnion, an above-average amount of amniotic fluid, appears. This is due to the fact that the fetus cannot swallow the amniotic fluid because of the malformation. However, this is an … Symptoms | Esophageal Atresia

Consequences The condition following esophageal atresia requires professional follow-up treatment in the first few years. Although the prognosis is good, there are a number of postoperative complications that can be expected. In about 40% of children, gastroesophageal reflux (gastric acid flows back into the esophagus) occurs, which promotes frequent bronchopulmonary infections (infections affecting the lungs … Consequences | Esophageal Atresia