[Isolated tracheoesophageal fistulas. Apropos of 3 cases revealed in the newborn].

We report here on 3 cases of isolated tracheoesophageal fistula. This corresponds to approx. 2.7% of esophageal congenital abnormalities treated in our service. In all 3 cases, diagnosis could be evoked in the neonate in front of respiratory symptoms appearing with feeding. Esophageal contrast radiological studies confirmed in all cases the fistula and its level C7-T1. No other invasive investigation was necessary to the diagnosis. We did not observe associated malformations. Surgical approach was made by a right cervical incision to obtain in good conditions divisions of the fistula and suture of the esophageal and tracheal ends; in one case, a muscular flap was interposed. Followup and longterm results (up to 17 years) were excellent, with one case of regressive recurrent laryngeal nerve paresthesia.