Tracheoesophageal fistula
| Tracheoesophageal fistula | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Classification and external resources | |
| Specialty | medical genetics |
| ICD-10 | J95.0, Q39.1-Q39.2 |
| ICD-9-CM | 530.84, 750.3 |
| DiseasesDB | 30034 |
| eMedicine | med/3416 |
| MeSH | D014138 |
A tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF, or TOF; see spelling differences) is an abnormal connection (fistula) between the esophagus and the trachea. TEF is a common congenital abnormality, but when occurring late in life is usually the sequela of surgical procedures such as a laryngectomy.
Congenital TEF can arise due to failed fusion of the tracheoesophageal ridges after the fourth week of embryological development.
A fistula, from the Latin meaning ‘a pipe,’ is an abnormal connection running either between two tubes or between a tube and a surface. In tracheo-esophageal fistula it runs between the trachea and the esophagus. This connection may or may not have a central cavity; if it does, then food within the esophagus may pass into the trachea (and on to the lungs) or alternatively, air in the trachea may cross into the esophagus.
TEF can also occur due to pressure necrosis by a tracheostomy tube in apposition to a nasogastric tube (NGT).
Neonates with TEF or esophageal atresia are unable to feed properly. Once diagnosed, prompt surgery is required to allow the food intake. Some children do experience problems following TEF surgery; they can develop dysphagia and thoracic problems. Children with TEF can also be born with other abnormalities, most commonly those described in VACTERL association - a group of anomalies which often occur together, including heart, kidney and limb deformities. 6% of babies with TEF also have a laryngeal cleft.
Fistulae between the trachea and esophagus in the newborn can be of diverse morphology and anatomical location; however, various pediatric surgical publications have attempted a classification system based on the below specified types.
Not all types include both esophageal agenesis and tracheoesophageal fistula, but the most common types do.
The letter codes are usually associated with the system used by Gross, while number codes are usually associated with Vogt.
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