Tracheoesophageal Fistula Repair

Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) with esophageal atresia (EA) is a congenital malformation occurring in approximately 1:4,000 live births. TEF/EA is characterized by disrupted continuity of the esophagus. There are five distinct types, but the most common is EA with a distal TEF. Most cases are diagnosed postnatally after an inability to pass a nasogastric tube (NGT), with subsequent radiographic imaging finding the NGT coiled within the esophageal pouch. The anesthetic management of TEF/EA repair can be complicated by the presence of cardiac, renal, and vertebral anomalies. Additionally, ventilation can be challenging, and care must be taken to minimize insufflation of the stomach through the fistula. Postoperative analgesia should include consideration of intravenous opioids, nonopioid adjunct medications, and regional and neuraxial techniques.