Choanal atresia

Treatment:

Immediate concerns include resuscitation of the baby if necessary. An airway may need to be placed so that the infant can breathe.

An infant can learn to mouth breathe, which can delay the need for immediate surgery.

Surgery to remove the obstruction is curative. It may be delayed if infant can tolerate mouth breathing.

Expectations (prognosis):

Full recovery is expected.

Complications:

• respiratory arrest (the infant stops breathing altogether)
• aspiration while feeding and attempting to breathe through the mouth

Calling your health care provider:

Choanal atresia, especially when it affects both sides, is generally diagnosed shortly after birth while the infant is still in the hospital. One-sided atresia may be relatively symptom-free, and these infants may be sent home without diagnosis. If your infant exhibits any of the problems listed here, consult your health care provider.