Comparison of diagnostic methods, surgical approaches and outcome for congenital H-type tracheoesophageal fistula: A Systematic Review

Congenital H-type tracheoesophageal fistula (H-TEF) is a rare congenital defect characterized by an abnormal connection between the trachea and the esophagus. It occurs in approximately one in 50,000 live births (1). Diagnosis can be difficult and delayed in H-TEF because of the absence of an associated atresia of the esophagus. Symptoms are usually nonspecific. Recurrent pneumonia, chronic cough, and dysphagia may yield to further investigations for a definitive diagnosis (2, 3). A delayed diagnosis could alter the size and position of the fistula anatomy in relation to organs, thereby limiting therapeutic options.