Pronounced – uh-SOF-uh-JEE-uhl) (uh-TREE-zee-uh

Esophageal atresia (EA) is a birth defect in which the esophagus lacks the opening to allow food to pass into the stomach.

Esophageal atresia occurs in about 1 out of 4,000 births.

Other types of esophageal atresia involve narrowing of the esophagus, and may also be associated with other birth defects.

Symptoms of Esophageal Atresia

• Bluish coloration to the skin (cyanosis) with attempted feedings.
• Coughing, gagging, and choking with attempted feeding.
• Drooling.
• Poor feeding.

Treatment for Esophageal Atresia

Esophageal atresia is a surgical emergency. Early diagnosis of esophageal atresia gives a baby a better chance of a good outcome.

Surgery should be done quickly to repair the esophagus after the baby is stabilized so that the lungs are not damaged and the baby can be fed.

Before the surgery, the baby is not fed by mouth to prevent the baby from breathing secretions into the lungs.