Oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal fistula
Overview
Oesophageal atresia is a rare birth defect that affects a baby's oesophagus (the tube through which food passes from the mouth to the stomach).
Causes
Oesophageal atresia is thought to be caused by a problem with the development of the oesophagus while the baby is in the womb, although it's not clear exactly why this happens. It's more common in babies who have problems with the development of their kidneys, heart and spine. The risk of having another baby with oesophageal atresia is thought to be very small.