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Tracheoesophageal fistula repair (TEF)
A RARE CONDITION, WHICH TENDS TO OCCUR ALONGSIDE OESOPHAGEAL ATRESIA.
If your baby has a tracheo-oesophageal fistula, our HCA UK paediatric neonatal surgeons can repair the defect with surgery
What is a tracheoesophageal fistula?
A tracheo-oesophageal fistula develops while your baby is still in the womb. An abnormal connection occurs between their trachea (windpipe) and oesophagus.
The seriousness of the defect means they normally require surgery to repair this shortly after birth. Our HCA UK paediatric neonatal surgeons are able to diagnose and treat them.
Need to know
Surgery to repair a tracheo-oesophageal fistula is carried out under general anaesthetic, shortly after birth. The procedure normally lasts between two-to-three hours in theatre.
Once your baby is asleep, their surgeon will likely follow these steps:
- make an incision on the right side of your baby's chest, in between their ribs
- using surgical instruments, repair and sew the abnormal connection (fistula) between the oesophagus and trachea (windpipe)
- stitch or glue the incision on your baby's chest
As the procedure is carried out very soon after birth, your baby will be transferred almost immediately to the operating theatre. It is likely that their tracheo-oesophagul fistula would have been identified initially during an ultrasound scan. After birth, an X-ray may be used to assess your baby's stomach in more detail.
Your baby will stay in the intensive care unit and be placed in an incubator.
During their stay here, they may also need the following during their recovery process:
- ventilation machine to assist their breathing
- tubes inserted into your baby's chest to drain any fluids or trapped air
- oxygen
- medication such as antibiotics
- You should be able to take your baby home once they are taking food by mouth. This may take up to two weeks. Once they are home, breast or bottle feeding is recommended for the first few months. Your baby's consultant will arrange follow-up appointments with you. They will also advise you on caring for them at home.
Our Tracheoesophageal fistula repair (TEF) locations
The Portland Hospital
205-209 Great Portland Street W1W 5AH London
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.