Tracheoesophageal fistula and esophageal atresia repair

Alternative names:

esophageal atresia repair; TEF repair; tracheoesophageal fistula repair

Expectations after surgery:

This problem can usually be corrected surgically. If the two portions of the esophagus are too short, further reconstruction may be necessary and a gastrostomy tube may be temporarily inserted for feedings.

Convalescence:

The baby will be cared for pre-operatively and post-operatively in a neonatal intensive care unit. He/she will be placed in an isolette (incubator) to keep warm. He/she may require oxygen and/or mechanical ventilation. A chest tube may be in place to drain fluids. Intravenous fluids and pain medications will be given. Feedings will be started as soon as possible, depending on the extent of the repair. Length of the hospitalization varies, depending on the seriousness of the surgery and the baby's condition.