Management of coexisting coarctation of the aorta and oesophageal atresia.

The combination of neonatal coarctation of the aorta (CoA) and oesophageal atresia (oA) is rare and the optimum approach to surgical correction uncertain. Of 84 consecutive neonates with CoA over an 8-year period, 2 had coexisting oA. We consider that CoA repair by subclavian flap should be performed first to improve the environment for healing of the oesophageal anastomosis. A carefully co-ordinated approach between paediatric and cardiac surgical teams is recommended.