should not be used if TEF is suspected, due to its high risk of allergy and severe intractable chest infection. Classification Fistulae between the trachea and esophagus in the newborn can be of diverse morphology and anatomical location. However, various pediatric surgical publications have attempted a classification system based on the below specified types. Not all types include both esophageal agenesis and tracheoesophageal fistula, but the most common types do. The letter codes are usually associated with the system used by Gross, while number codes are usually associated with Vogt. An additional type, "blind upper segment only" has been described, but this type is not usually included in most classifications. (For the purposes of this discussion, proximal esophagus indicates normal esophageal tissue arising normally from the pharynx, and distal esophagus indicates normal esophageal tissue emptying into the proximal stomach.) Treatment It is surgically corrected, with resection of any fistula and anastomosis of any discontinuous segments. Babies often need to spend time in a neonatal intensive care unit for feeding with a stomach feeding tube. Antibiotics, pain relief, a chest drain, oxygen, and ventilation may all be needed. References External links Congenital disorders of digestive system