This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

Investigation of oesophageal atresia

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

To confirm a case of oesophageal atresia, a size 10 French gauge soft rubber catheter is passed into the oesophagus through the mouth. It cannot be passed more than 10-12cm from the gums in cases of atresia. Note the practical pitfall of a smaller catheter being apparently passed but in fact coiling up, unnoticed, in the pharynx.

Investigations to confirm the diagnosis include chest and abdominal radiographs. With a tracheo-oesophageal fistula, for example, air is noted in the stomach and small intestine. It is not advisable to use contrast media because of the risk of aspiration should there be a fistula.

Chest radiology may also reveal cardiac anomalies, and an echocardiogram is probably indicated, since the surgeon needs to know that the aorta is on the correct side.


Create an account to add page annotations

Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.