Anatomic findings and management of choanal atresia and the CHARGE association

Abstract

The CHARGE association is a collection of multisystem congenital anomalies including choanal atresia. A review of the literature failed to identify any specific findings that suggested the need to alter the management of choanal atresia in these patients. Our review of 24 patients with choanal atresia managed between 1974 and 1986 identified nine patients with the CHARGE criteria. These nine patients demonstrated a higher prevalence of surgical failures than the patients without the CHARGE association. The reasons are discussed, and computed tomographic scans demonstrate the anatomic findings of a more contracted nasopharynx and narrowed posterior choanal region. Thus, successful repairs require a more radical resection of the posterior nasal septum and lateral bony walls that can be achieved only with a transpalatal approach. The preoperative airways of CHARGE association patients are also at increased risk of obstruction and may require intubation or tracheotomy during the early life of the patient.