Esophageal atresia is a rare congenital condition where the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach, does not develop properly. It is typically diagnosed shortly after birth when a newborn experiences difficulty feeding or swallowing.
Symptoms:
The most common symptoms of esophageal atresia include:
Diagnosis:
If esophageal atresia is suspected, a series of tests will be conducted to confirm the diagnosis. These may include:
Treatment:
Esophageal atresia requires surgical intervention to repair the abnormal connection. The specific procedure depends on the type and severity of the atresia. Surgery aims to reconnect the two ends of the esophagus and ensure proper swallowing function. In some cases, a temporary feeding tube may be placed until the baby can feed normally.
Prognosis:
The prognosis for infants with esophageal atresia has significantly improved over the years. With early diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention, most babies can lead normal lives. However, long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor for any complications or associated conditions.