Esophageal atresia is a rare congenital anomaly that occurs in newborn babies. In this condition, the esophagus does not develop properly and becomes obstructed. Esophageal atresia prevents food and fluids from reaching the stomach, which can lead to serious health problems and require urgent medical intervention. Treatment usually involves surgical intervention, where the two ends of the esophagus are joined together to allow for normal passage. After surgery, the baby’s feeding and growth are monitored and supported. If there are symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and difficulty breathing in babies, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
Causes of Esophageal Atresia
The exact causes of esophageal atresia are not fully understood. However, scientists believe that such conditions can arise as a result of genetic, environmental, and genetic-environmental interactions:
Genetic Factors: Family history can increase the risk of esophageal atresia.
Environmental Effects: Environmental factors to which the mother is exposed during pregnancy can increase the risk of esophageal atresia in the baby.
Genetic Mutations: Some genetic mutations or genetic syndromes can lead to esophageal atresia.
Drug Use: The misuse of certain drugs by the mother during pregnancy can increase the risk of esophageal atresia.
Symptoms of Esophageal Atresia
Symptoms of esophageal atresia may include:
- feeding problems
- vomiting
- difficulty breathing
- irritability and crying
- choking during feeding
- saliva coming out of the mouth
Diagnosis of Esophageal Atresia
The following methods can be used to diagnose esophageal atresia:
Physical Examination: A physical examination performed by a pediatrician is important in newborn babies suspected of having esophageal atresia.
Radiological Imaging: Doctors may use radiological imaging methods to diagnose and determine the degree of esophageal atresia.
Endoscopy: In some cases, endoscopic examination may be performed to confirm esophageal atresia and determine the treatment plan.
Treatment of Esophageal Atresia
The treatment of esophageal atresia aims to restore the esophagus to its normal state and establish a connection between the esophagus and the stomach:
Surgical Intervention: Surgical operation is necessary to correct esophageal atresia.
Establishment of Esophageal and Gastric Connection: After surgery, it is important to establish a proper connection between the esophagus and the stomach.
Intensive Care: Babies with esophageal atresia are closely monitored in the intensive care unit after surgery.
Feeding: The feeding of babies after surgery is carefully planned.
Long-Term Monitoring: Babies with esophageal atresia require long-term follow-up after surgery.
Management of Esophageal Atresia
The management of esophageal atresia should be carefully planned from the postnatal period of babies and may require a multidisciplinary approach:
Early Diagnosis and Surgical Intervention: Since esophageal atresia is a congenital condition, diagnosis should be made in the first hours or days after birth, and surgical intervention should be performed immediately if necessary.
Intensive Care: Babies with esophageal atresia are closely monitored in the intensive care unit after surgery.
Feeding and Growth Monitoring: Feeding of babies after surgery should be carefully planned.
Monitoring of Esophageal and Gastric Connection: After surgery, it should be ensured that the connection between the esophagus and the stomach is functioning properly.
Monitoring of Complications: Occasionally, complications related to the esophagus may occur in babies with esophageal atresia.
Long-Term Follow-up: Babies with esophageal atresia require long-term follow-up after surgery.
Family Support: Families diagnosed with esophageal atresia should receive support and guidance during this process.