When is EA TEF diagnosed?
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When is EA TEF diagnosed?
The diagnosis of EA/TEF is confirmed by attempting to pass a nasogastric tube (a tube that runs from the nose to the stomach via the esophagus) down the throat of infants who have require excessive suction of mucus, or are born to mothers with polyhydramnios, or, if earlier signs are missed have difficulty feeding.
Is EA TEF genetic?
Causes. Isolated EA/TEF is considered to be a multifactorial condition, which means that multiple gene variations and environmental factors likely contribute to its occurrence. In most cases of isolated EA/TEF, no specific genetic changes or environmental factors have been conclusively determined to be the cause.
Is esophageal atresia fatal?
Esophageal atresia can be life-threatening, so the baby has to be treated quickly. Doctors perform surgery to connect the esophagus to the stomach in babies with this condition.
Is esophageal atresia rare?
Researchers estimate that about 1 in every 4,100 babies is born with esophageal atresia in the United States. This birth defect can occur alone, but often occurs with other birth defects.
How will esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula affect an infant?
When a baby with a TE fistula swallows, the liquid can pass through the abnormal connection between the esophagus and the trachea. When this happens, liquid gets into the baby’s lungs. This can cause pneumonia and other problems.
How do babies eat with esophageal atresia?
Until surgery, the baby will receive nutrition and fluids through an intravenous catheter. During esophageal atresia surgery, the surgeon will pass a tube from the mouth to the stomach, going through the newly sewn-together esophagus. This “feeding tube” will be used for the first week or so after surgery.
What causes EA TEF?
In particular, EA/TEF has been linked to: VACTERL syndrome, a complex condition that includes a group of birth defects often seen together that affect the vertebrae, anus, heart (cardiac), trachea, esophagus, kidney (renal), and limbs.
