Key Points

• Esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula is the most common developmental esophageal anomaly.
• Esophageal atresia, with or without fistula, is a component of the VACTERL association.
• Search for associated cardiac and renal anomalies is mandatory before surgery for esophageal atresia.
• Most congenital esophageal anomalies can be surgically corrected with minimal morbidity and mortality.
• Treatment of syndromic, long-gap atresia or complex laryngotracheoesophageal clefts is associated with prolonged hospitalization and significant morbidity.
• Ideal operation for repair of long-gap esophageal atresia has not been established.