Everything You Must Know About Esophageal Atresia

Esophageal atresia may be a life-altering diagnosis for any family, since it hinders a newborn from swallowing and digesting food correctly, often leading to feeding issues, respiratory discomfort, and frequent hospital visits throughout the early months of life. However, because of the developments in pediatric surgery and neonatal intensive care, this medical condition is highly curable. Children normally recover well from surgical correction, which is commonly done in the first few days of life, if they receive the right post-operative care and nutritional assistance. The prognosis is good overall, however some may need further treatments for related disorders including reflux or tracheoesophageal fistula.

The majority of kids who have esophageal atresia surgery go on to lead healthy, active, and fulfilling lives. They are able to participate in sports, go to school, and reach right developmental milestones. In certain situations, lifelong surveillance may be advised to ensure the best possible digestive health; yet, these kids can flourish with the help of a committed medical team and their families.

At Surya Hospital, the best pediatric surgery hospital in Mumbai, we make sure every kid gets the individualized care they need by merging our surgical skill with kind, family-centered care. Every stage of your child's journey is supported by our comprehensive pediatric team, from diagnosis and surgery to recuperation and long-term wellbeing.

What is Esophageal Atresia?

A congenital deformity that affects how your baby's esophagus grows is called esophageal atresia. The swallowing tube that joins their mouth and stomach is called the esophagus. "Atresia" refers to the absence or closure of a channel within the body. The esophagus is blocked at the bottom where it should join your baby's stomach in esophageal atresia. Your infant can't eat regularly because of this.

There are various forms of esophageal atresia, some of which can cause extra challenges for your baby. Up to 90% of babies with esophageal atresia also have a tracheoesophageal fistula, which is a birth defect in which the esophagus connects to the trachea, or windpipe, rather than the stomach, which can cause the baby to choke or inhale when they swallow

What are the Types of Esophageal Atresia?

The many forms of esophageal atresia (EA), with or without tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), are characterized by where the esophagus closes and, if it does, where it attaches to the trachea.

What are the Causes of Esophageal Atresia?

Congenital malformations, such as esophageal atresia, occur when something in the oesophagus develops differently during fetal development and results in an impairment that exists from birth. As the esophagus and trachea develop normally, they start off as a single tube and eventually split apart. In case, this tube fails to complete its development and separation, esophageal atresia (and frequently tracheoesophageal fistula) forms.

Another question is what hinders this process of development. Although the precise reasons are unknown, researchers believe that both genetic and environmental factors have a role. Genetic mutations are alterations to your child's DNA that impact their development. Both random and partially inherited mutations can be the possible causes. Stress and other environmental variables can increase the likelihood of mutations.

What are the Symptoms of Esophageal Atresia?

Babies may have trouble swallowing due to esophageal abnormalities. Although most forms of esophageal atresia do not cause breathing problems. When these issues appear simultaneously, it typically means that EA has TEF.
Experts recognize esophageal atresia by the “three Cs”:

• Coughing
• Choking
• Cyanosis (a bluish tint to the skin, a sign of low oxygen)

Other signs and symptoms can include:

• Foamy mucus in your baby’s mouth
• Excess saliva, spitting up or drooling
• Gagging when attempting to feed
• Respiratory distress
   

What are the Treatment Options of Esophageal Atresia?

Soon after your baby is born, surgery may often correct the abnormalities. Before they are prepared for the procedure, some newborns might need to remain in the hospital for a short while longer in order to get respiratory assistance and feeding. If their esophagus is too short to heal or they were born prematurely, they could require additional time to grow. Treatment for other life-threatening diseases, such as heart abnormalities, may be necessary for certain kids initially.
Until the anomaly can be corrected, babies with esophageal atresia will require medical assistance to eat. Their doctors will arrange for surgery to fix it as soon as possible. They will be fed in the meantime either intravenously (parenteral feeding) or through a tube (enteral nourishment). Surgery involves:

• Close off any connections between your baby's esophagus and airway. 
• Anastomosis which is the process of joining separate esophageal segments is done.
   

Conclusion

When your newborn is born with a birth defect that necessitates immediate medical attention, it can be frightening, but for the majority of babies, the emergency is brief in duration. Your medical team will keep an eye on your child until surgery can correct the deformity and restore normal breathing and swallowing. Following surgery, your child may experience some ongoing issues with breathing, swallowing, and respiratory infections, particularly during the first few years of life. However, with continued care and attention, most children grow up to lead relatively normal lives.

Avail expert care for esophageal atresia at Surya Hospital, the best pediatric surgery hospital in Mumbai. Book your consultation now!

FAQs

Q1. How is esophageal atresia diagnosed?
A: It is often diagnosed shortly after birth through symptoms like excessive drooling, choking, or difficulty feeding. Prenatal ultrasounds may also detect signs.

Q2. Is esophageal atresia life-threatening?
A: Without treatment, it can be life-threatening, but with prompt surgical intervention, most children recover and live healthy lives.

Q3. What causes esophageal atresia?
A: The exact cause is unknown, but it's believed to result from disruptions in fetal development. It may also be associated with other congenital anomalies.