How is an infant with tracheo-esophageal fistula with esophageal atresia fed prior to surgery?

An infant with tracheo-esophageal fistula and esophageal atresia is unable to safely take food orally due to the abnormal connection between the esophagus and trachea or due to an incomplete esophagus. This condition makes it critical to prevent any feeding by mouth, as it could lead to aspiration and subsequent respiratory complications.

Being NPO, which means nothing by mouth, is essential to avoid the risk of feeding into the trachea. Before surgical correction, the preferred method of providing nutrition is through a G-tube, or gastric tube, allowing for nutrition to be delivered directly into the stomach while bypassing the esophagus entirely. This method is safe and effective, ensuring the infant receives necessary nourishment without the risks associated with oral feeding.

Other methods, such as using special nipples or feeding through a bottle, would not be suitable given the anatomical abnormalities present, as these could lead to aspiration and further complications. Feeding through an intravenous line is typically reserved for providing fluids and medications rather than nutritional support, making it less ideal in this context.