Use of Sound and Stethoscope in Esophageal Atresia

Abstract

Some years ago we conducted a congenital anomaly survey which included passage of a nasogastric tube bilaterally with one attempt to enter the stomach. Today we continue to see infants with esophageal atresia undiagnosed because the catheter when passed curls up in the esophageal sac. Thus, when air is injected it can be heard in the stomach. We therefore urge that people performing this congenital anomaly survey practice listening to the difference between the sound of air entering the stomach and the sound of air entering the esophageal pouch.