What secondary problem is often associated with un-repaired tracheo-esophageal fistula with esophageal atresia?

Un-repaired tracheo-esophageal fistula with esophageal atresia often leads to malnutrition as a secondary problem. This condition typically involves a congenital malformation where the esophagus does not form properly, resulting in a disconnect between the esophagus and stomach. When this happens, infants are unable to feed normally, which can severely impact their nutritional intake.

The inability to ingest food allows for a lack of essential nutrients and calories necessary for growth and development. Infants may exhibit symptoms such as failure to thrive, dehydration, and significant weight loss due to their inability to establish effective feeding. Therefore, malnutrition becomes a critical issue requiring prompt intervention.

While infections can occur in this context due to aspiration or other complications, and jaundice may arise from various causes unrelated to the fistula itself, malnutrition is the most direct consequence stemming from the inability to properly feed due to the anatomical defect. Colic, primarily associated with gastrointestinal distress in infants, is not a direct consequence of tracheo-esophageal fistula and thus is less relevant to this particular condition.