A tracheoesophageal fistula is a serious medical problem where the esophagus and windpipe are connected, usually due to a congenital error. It can cause complications such as pneumonia and malnutrition. Surgery is required to repair the connection, and financial assistance programs are available for those who cannot afford it.
A tracheoesophageal fistula is a connection between the esophagus and the windpipe. These two structures are normally not connected and the connection represents a very serious medical problem. These fistulas are usually congenital, occurring as a result of an error that occurred during fetal development, but can sometimes emerge later in life, such as as a complication of surgery performed in these regions. The fistula is repaired in surgery where the connection is broken and the esophagus and trachea are repaired.
Often, tracheoesophageal fistula appears with a condition called atresia. In atresia, the upper part of the esophagus ends in a pouch instead of connecting with the lower part and the stomach. In other words, people with atresia can eat, but the food doesn’t enter their stomach. As the bag fills up, food can leak into the trachea through the fistula. When it enters the windpipe, it can bubble in the mouth or flow into the lungs, which can lead to complications for the patient.
Children with tracheoesophageal atresia and/or fistula have some classic symptoms. They have difficulty feeding, often drool, and may cough, choke, or even turn blue while trying to feed or after eating. A pediatrician can diagnose a tracheoesophageal fistula and recommend surgery to correct the problem. Depending on the precise nature of the defect, a surgeon may perform two different surgeries to address the atresia and fistula. The surgeon can use the imaging studies to learn more about the situation and give parents insight into what to expect.
Having a tracheoesophageal fistula can be very dangerous. If people aspirate food through the fistula, they can develop pneumonia. Aspiration of food can also cause choking and coughing and can interfere with the airways, potentially putting someone at risk. Tracheoesophageal fistulas are very repairable with surgery and it is important to receive treatment for your comfort and quality of life and to prevent complications such as malnutrition and pneumonia.
Parents who cannot afford surgery to treat a tracheoesophageal fistula may be able to access assistance through programs that pay for surgeries to address birth defects. These programs can be run by private groups or government agencies and are designed to help parents care for children with such conditions by providing them with financial assistance which can help pay for surgeries, consultations with doctors, accommodation during treatment, and other needs. A pediatrician can provide parents with information about programs that may be helpful.
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