Airway and ventilatory management in a premature neonate with congenital tracheoesophageal fistula

Abstract

Esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a congenital defect that often presents with respiratory distress in neonates. The anatomical defect in the form of connection between the esophagus and the trachea often affects respiratory function. Gastric distention often occurs due to large air leak into the stomach and may lead to respiratory distress. Surgical correction of the anatomical defect will improve the outcome in these patients. Preoperative preparation and intraoperative management is an essential point. Suboptimal preparation may lead to a life-threatening situation intraoperative. Focusing on airway and ventilatory management may help in reducing morbidity and mortality. We report a case of anesthesia management of TEF repair in a premature neonate with a complication during airway and ventilatory management.

Keywords

• airway management
• esophageal atresia
• tracheoesophageal fistula
• ventilatory management