[Congenital laryngo-tracheo-esophageal cleft]

A typical case of congenital laryngo-trachea-esophageal cleft (LTEC) is presented with a Review of the literature. LTEC is a rare congenital anomaly caused by defective fusion of the septum between larynx/trachea and hypopharynx/esophagus. The septum is formed by fusion of two lateral folds growing medially in very early foetal life. Fusion progresses in a cranial direction. Disturbances in septum formation result in LTEC. The disease gives respiratory problems with aspiration and excessive salivary production. The diagnosis is best made by intubating the larynx and examining the postcricoid region and anterior wall of the esophagus endoscopically. Stapling of the stomach, tracheostomy and secondary operative closure of the cleft has proved effective in the treatment of LTEC.