Membranous atresia of the intra-abdominal oesophagus. A case report

A premature neonate who presented with inability to feed is reported. The unusual radiological appearances stimulated further studies to define the level of atresia in the intra-abdominal oesophagus. A membranous atresia was disrupted using a thoraco-abdominal approach. However, this rare variant of oesophageal atresia is correctable through an abdominal approach and awareness may prevent unnecessary thoracotomy. Recovery was uneventful. Our patient is only the second reported with intra-abdominal membranous atresia of the oesophagus, and is the first reported survivor.