Choanal atresia; diagnosis and simple endoscopic repair at remote primary care centers

ABSTRACT

Choanal atresia [CA] is a rare, congenital malformation resulting as a failure in communication between the posterior nasal cavity and the nasopharynx. The clinical course is often asymptomatic in unilateral CA leading to higher rates of misdiagnosis, in comparison to bilateral CA, which manifests itself as a surgical emergency at birth. Most cases present as isolated malformations, but it may also be associated with other congenital anomalies in 20-50% of cases. Currently, the most important diagnostic tool for CA is computerized tomography [CT] and confirmatory diagnosis is usually achieved with the help of nasoendoscopic examination. Although, different surgical approaches have been used in the past, transnasal endoscopic repair is currently preferred over others. Herein, we describe our experience of three cases and share our simple stentless endoscopic technique, to facilitate physicians working in low facility units for a timely diagnosis and prompt treatment