Oesophageal atresia

Oesophageal atresia is a congenital condition in which the oesophagus is not passable. Depending on the type of oesophageal atresia, there is a connection between the oesophagus and the trachea (known as a fistula). Oesophageal atresia can be associated with other clinical pictures (so-called VACTERL association) or be present in isolation. The frequency is approximately one in 3,500 births.

Newborns or premature babies are characterised by coughing and salivating as well as an inability to swallow food.

In addition to the typical clinical symptoms (coughing, salivation, no food intake possible), the gastric tube rolls up in the upper, blind-ended part of the oesophagus. It cannot be pushed into the stomach. Furthermore, all children who are operated on at the UKBB undergo a so-called tracheoscopy at the start of the operation. This involves inspecting the windpipe with a camera. The diagnosis can thus be confirmed. In addition, other malformations can be seen or ruled out.

In principle, there are two ways to operate on oesophageal atresia. In the classic, open method, an incision is made on the right side of the thoracic wall and the malformation is operated on openly. In the minimally invasive method, three very small incisions (maximum 5 mm in size) are made and the malformation is operated on using the keyhole technique. Keyhole surgery for oesophageal atresia is one of the most demanding procedures of all. In Switzerland, it is only offered by our clinic and one other clinic. Depending on the malformation, associated clinical pictures and the weight of your child, we perform either open or minimally invasive surgery.

Hospitalisation begins with the birth. The operation is performed in the first few days of life. Afterwards, the children are hospitalised for one to sometimes several weeks.

The prognosis depends on the type of malformation, associated malformations and the surgical method (open or minimally invasive). Children may later suffer from swallowing difficulties, acid regurgitation or recurrent lung infections. Malformations of the thoracic wall or the spine hardly ever occur with the minimally invasive surgical method. The paediatric surgery team at the UKBB will accompany your child into adulthood and specialises in treating any complaints at an early stage and in a child-friendly manner.