Congenital esophageal malformations

IntroductionIsolated oesotracheal fistula (OTF) without oesophageal atresia, also known as fistula, is a rare congenital malformation. Its etiopathogenesis is obscure, its diagnosis difficult and it must be made early to improve prognosis.Methods We report 13 cases of isolated congenital FOT operated on in the pediatric surgery department of Fattouma Bourguiba Hospital, Monastir, over a period of 20 years.Results The clinical picture consisted of bouts of coughing and cyanosis, especially at feeding time. Thoracoabdominal radiography showed inhalation pneumopathy, atelectasis and aerocolia. TOGD revealed FOT in 6 cases. Tracheoscopy was performed in 8 cases immediately preoperatively. Surgical treatment consisted in closing the FOT with the interposition of a plane, usually pleural. Postoperative follow-up was straightforward in 10 patients, with an average follow-up of 5 years. Three patients died postoperatively following septic shock refractory to resuscitation measures.ConclusionThe earlier the diagnosis, the faster the management, the lower the morbidity.