About half of all babies with esophageal atresia also have other congenital disabilities such as heart, kidney and spinal problems.
Even after surgery, babies with esophageal atresia may experience complications including:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Acid from the stomach travels back up into the esophagus, which can lead to inflammation and a burning sensation.
- Scar tissue: Scar tissue can form in the area where the esophagus is surgically repaired, leading to narrowing and swallowing difficulty.
- Tracheomalacia: Windpipe walls are weak and floppy, causing noisy, high-pitched breathing.