Oesophageal atresia (failure of the "gullet" to unite to form a continuous tube) and tracheo-oesophageal fistula (an unnatural communication between the windpipe and the gullet) are congenital development abnormalities which occur between the 23rd and 28th day of pregnancy. Depending on the position of the fistula, it either allows food or acid gastric juices into the lungs or air into the stomach. Many children with these particular congenital anomolies also present with other organ defects for example imperforate anus, kidney and heart, limb or spinal anomolies.

Oesophagael problems are normally diagnosed at birth as the baby cannot swallow. Where no immediate operation is possible, a gastrostomy (tube inserted in the stomach for feeding) is performed. An operation can then be done at a later date. Swallowing problems are common in these conditions.

Bulbar Palsy is a developmental defect of the medulla oblongata in the brain which causes swallowing problems. VATER Association occurs where vertebral defects, anal atresia, tracheo-oesophageal fistula/oesophageal atresia, achalasia and radial dysplasia (absent radii) are characteristic.

Inheritance patterns:  None.

Pre-Natal diagnosis: Can occasionally be found by ultrasound scanning. Maternal polyhydramnion (excessive quantities of amniotic fluid) may indicate the presence of tracheo-oesophageal fistula/oesophageal atresia in the fetus.

Further information available from:

TOFS,
St. George's Centre
91 Victoria road
Netherfield
Nottingham
NG4 2NN
(Tel: 0115 961 3092   Fax: 0115 961 3097)

e-mail:  info@tofs.org.uk

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TOFS (Tracheo-Oesophageal Fistula Support) http://www.tofs.org.uk  is a Registered charity No. 327735 and was formed in 1982. The group covers Bulbar Palsy and VATER Association.  It offers:

• Mutual support through telephone, letters and visits
• Contact through local meetings and social events
• Local co-ordinators

Activities:

• National conferences
• Fundraising

There are over 700 members