Fetal stomach paracentesis in combined duodenal and esophageal atresia

Fetuses with concomitant duodenal atresia (DA) and esophageal atresia (EA) might develop in utero gastric rupture as well as neonatal respiratory complication due to dilated stomach and duodenum. Our patient with the typical "double bubble" appearance was highly suspected to have DA in the second trimester. Follow-up examinations revealed a massively dilated stomach and duodenum with a dilated distal esophagus, indicating concomitant DA and EA. With advancing pregnancy, the fetal abdomen progressively increased in size by retention of fluid in the closed loop of DA and EA. To avoid gastric perforation, prenatal stomach paracentesis using an ultrasound-guided needle was performed three times until delivery. A male neonate born at 37 weeks gestation showed no respiratory complication. Perinatal clinical features and operative findings revealed combined DA and EA (gross type A). He was successfully managed with duodenoduodenostomy, followed by esophago-esophagostomy. On fetal sonography, the marked "double bubble" appearance and the cystic structure presenting peristalsis-like movement above the diaphragm were indicative of concomitant DA and EA. Fetal stomach paracentesis could contribute to the improvement of perinatal outcomes in fetuses with this pathological condition.