Congenital esophageal atresia associated with tracheobronchial remnant: a case report and literature review

Objective To report one rare case of esophageal atresia/tracheo-esophageal fistula (EA-TEF) associated with tracheobronchial remnant (TBR) and review the relevant literature. Methods The clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment of one patient with EA-TEF associated with TBR were reviewed. And a systematic review of Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, CNKI, Wanfang and VIP databases was performed for searching for the relevant studies and summarizing the clinical and diagnostic characteristics of TBR-associated EA, cartilaginous tracheobronchial remnants and congenital esophageal atresia. Results TBR-associated EA is rather rare in the literature. Only 6 English studies involving 21 cases have been reported so far. After EA repairing, vomiting of solid food is a major manifestation. And it may be easily misdiagnosed as anastomotic stricture. The major diagnostic mode is composed of barium contrast esophagogram and postoperative pathologic examination. Surgery has a definite efficacy. However, such postoperative complications as anastomotic stricture may be observed. Conclusions EA associated with TBR is rare. However, its clinical outcomes are satisfactory if appropriate diagnosis and treatment are performed. Key words: Esophageal atresia; Tracheal cartilage; Ectopic cartilage of esophagus