Mind the Missing Gap

Background: Esophageal atresia (EA) type A, characterized by the absence of a tracheoesophageal fistula and typically presenting with a long esophageal gap, usually requires staged repair. Methods: We report a rare case of a newborn with type A EA in which both the proximal and distal esophageal pouches were unexpectedly close and located in the cervical region. This anatomical variant allowed for a successful primary anastomosis through a cervical approach. Results: Initial imaging was misleading, and the true anatomy was clarified only through thoracoscopic exploration, underscoring the importance of intraoperative flexibility. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first report of such a presentation in type A EA, with significant implications for diagnosis and surgical strategy

Anastomosis · Atresia · Fistula · Presentation (obstetrics · Radiology · Tracheoesophageal fistula · Dysphagia Assessment and Management · Esophageal and GI Pathology · Medicine · Tracheal and airway disorders · Anatomy · Surgery