tracheo-oesophageal fistula


tracheo-oesophageal fistula

An abnormal connection between the windpipe (trachea) and the gullet (oesophagus), present at birth. This results from failure of full differentiation of the two structures in early fetal life. The baby cannot swallow normally and milk may enter the trachea causing choking and the risk of asphyxia, pneumonia and collapse of the lungs. Early surgical correction is necessary.