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Trans-cervical, trans-tracheal approach to proximal tracheo-oesophageal fistula: a novel technique
J C Oosthuizen1, R R Ramli1, O M Aworanti2
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Ireland.
Insights
Diagnosing H-type tracheo-esophageal fistula (TEF) can be challenging. A new trans-cervical, trans-tracheal approach offers direct visualization and cannulation for proximal TEF management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric surgery
- Congenital anomalies
- Gastrointestinal surgery
Background:
- Esophageal atresia and tracheo-esophageal fistula (TEF) are congenital anomalies affecting 1 in 2400-4500 births.
- While esophageal atresia is typically diagnosed neonatally, isolated H-type TEF presents diagnostic challenges due to variable symptoms.
Observation:
- Contrast esophagography and endoscopy are standard for TEF localization.
- Intra-operative identification of TEF remains difficult even with accurate pre-operative localization.
Findings:
- This report details a novel trans-cervical, trans-tracheal approach for managing proximal TEF.
- This technique enables direct visualization and cannulation of the fistula.
Implications:
- This method may improve intra-operative identification and management of proximal TEF.
- Offers a new strategy for challenging TEF cases.
- Potential to reduce diagnostic and surgical complications.
Abstract:
Esophageal atresia and tracheo-esophageal fistula (TEF) occur in 1/2400-4500 births. Whilst the diagnosis of esophageal atresia is readily made shortly after birth, patients with an isolated H type TEF can present with varying degrees of symptomatology which can pose a diagnostic challenge. A combination of contrast esophagogram and endoscopic evaluastion is the most commonly employed localization strategy. Despite accurate pre-operative localization, intra-operative identification of the TEF can prove substantially more challenging. The authors of this report describe a novel approach in the management of a proximal TEF, which allows direct visualization and cannulation via a trans-cervical, trans-tracheal approach.
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