Esophageal Atresia Information & Education
Also referred to as:
Type A Esophageal Atresia is characterized by the presence of a “gap” between the two esophageal blind pouches. |
Esophageal Atresia with proximal TEF (tracheoesophageal fistula). Type B Esophageal Atresia is characterized by the upper esophageal pouch connecting abnormally to the trachea. This abnormal connection is called a fistula. The lower esophageal pouch ends blindly. |
Esophageal Atresia with distal TEF (tracheoesophageal fistula). Type C Esophageal Atresia is characterized by the lower esophageal pouch making an abnormal connection with the trachea. This abnormal connection is called a fistula. The upper esophageal pouch ends blindly. |
Esophageal Atresia with both proximal and distal TEF’s (two tracheoesophageal fistulas). Type D Esophageal Atresia is characterized by the upper and lower esophageal pouches making an abnormal connection with the trachea in two separate, isolated places. The upper esophageal atresia also still ends in a blind pouch. |
TEF (tracheoesophageal fistula) ONLY with no esophageal atresia. Sometimes referred to as Type H or Type N esophageal atresia. This rare form finds the esophagus fully intact and capable of its normal functions, however, there is an abnormal connection between the esophagus and the trachea. This abnormal connection is called a fistula. |