H-type tracheoesophageal fistula in the neonatal period: Difficulties in diagnosis and different treatment approaches. A case series

Abstract

Congenital tracheoesophageal fistula not associated with esophageal atresia, known as H-type fistula, is an uncommon anomaly. It presents with cough, choking, and cyanosis during feeding and/or recurrent pneumonia. Although symptoms are usually present from birth, diagnosis is difficult. The rarity of this disease, non-specific symptoms, and the limitations of radiological and endoscopic confirmation of the fistula often result in a delay between presentation and diagnosis confirmation. Here we describe the clinical manifestations, assessment methods, and management of 3 newborn infants with H-type tracheoesophageal fistula, together with diagnosis recommendations to prevent unnecessary delays in the management of this condition.