Esophageal atresia is a disorder of the digestive system in which the esophagus does not develop properly in utero, leaving the child without a critical part of the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that normally carries food from the mouth to the stomach, and any malformation of this tube can result in feeding difficulties and respiratory distress in the first few days of life. Esophageal atresia is a congenital birth defect, which means it occurs when the baby is in the womb and is already present at birth. There are several different types of this birth defect, the most common of which occurs when the upper esophagus ends and does not connect with the lower esophagus and stomach, and the top end of the lower esophagus connects to the windpipe. This connection is called a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), and frequently occurs with esophageal atresia. Other types of esophageal atresia involve a narrowing of the esophagus and may be associated with other birth defects. If your child was born with esophageal atresia and you believe a medical mistake to be the cause, contact an experienced birth defect attorney, as your child may be entitled to lifetime care.
Babies born with esophageal atresia will immediately exhibit problems with feeding. Common symptoms of esophageal atresia include:
Esophageal atresia is typically diagnosed shortly after birth when feeding is attempted and the baby coughs, chokes and turns blue. Babies who have TEF may also have trouble breathing, and may develop pneumonia.
Esophageal atresia is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate surgery to repair the esophagus so that the lungs are not damaged and the baby can be fed. Traditional surgical procedures for esophageal atresia allow the baby to swallow but typically require long-term medical care and monitoring, which can result in exorbitant medical expenses. An early diagnosis of esophageal atresia is typically associated with a better chance of a good outcome. However, some cases of this birth defect may result in serious complications, sometimes occurring when the child breathes saliva and other fluid into the lungs, causing aspiration pneumonia and possibly death. Other esophageal atresia complications may include:
According to research, up to half of babies born with esophageal atresia are born with additional birth defects, including heart defects like ventricular septal defect, patent ductus arteriosus, or tetralogy of Fallot. If you or a loved one has suffered from a birth defect like esophageal atresia, which you believe to be linked to a medical error, you may have grounds to file a medical malpractice lawsuit against the hospital, Ob/Gyn or doctor allegedly responsible for causing the birth defect. With the help of a qualified birth defect lawyer, you may be able to pursue financial compensation for your injuries, the medical expenses resulting from your injuries, and the pain and suffering endured by you and your family. Protect your rights and the rights of your child; contact an experienced birth defect attorney today.