H-TYPE TRACHEOESOPHAGEAL FISTULA IN A CHILD WITH DYSMORPHISM: VATER OR NOT?

H-Type Tracheoesophageal Fistula

Abstract

Tracheo-Esophageal fistula (TEF) with or without esophageal atresia occurs in approximately 1 in 3500 births. In
around half of the cases there are associated anomalies while esophageal atresia/TEF occurs in isolation in the
remainder. Congenital H-type tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) in adults is a rare presentation and can test the
diagnostic acumen of a surgeon, endoscopist, and the radiologist. These undetected fistulas may present as
chronic lung disease of unknown origin because repeated aspirations can lead to recurrent lung infections and
bronchiectasis. Congenital TEFs should be considered in the diagnosis of infants and young adults with recurrent
respiratory distress and/or infections. Here, we present the successful management of this rare case in an adult
patient.
Congenital H-type TEF in children is a rare presentation and search revealed no such case reported in local
literature. Here, we present the diagnosis and successful management of a child with congenital H-type TEF with
vertebral and limb defects.