Radiographic findings in esophageal atresia with proximal pouch fistula (type B)

Abstract

Patients with esophageal atresia and proximal pouch fistula have plain films that simulate esophageal atresia without fistula. Clinical suspicions of the existence of the proximal pouch fistula may occur when marked aspiration of barium occurs following outlining of the proximal pouch, or by choking spells during irrigation of the proximal pouch. Outlining of the fistula from the pouch requires some form of continuous imaging, either with T.V. tape, cine or 70 mm. spot films. Of interest is the fairly long distal esophageal segment found in the three cases reported, as opposed to the usual short segment of the distal esophagus seen in infants with esophageal atresia without fistula.