[Tracheal agenesis, a rare cause of respiratory insufficiency in newborn infants].

Tracheal agenesis is a rare congenital anomaly which presents immediately after birth an absolute respiratory insufficency. This report describes a new-born infant with a tracheal agenesis Typ II which was combined with an esophageal atresia and distal esophagotracheal fistula. In addition, costal synostosis was found. These malformations can be added to the VATER-association. Resuscitation of our patient (orotracheal and esophageal intubation, emergency coniotomy) was unsuccessful. However, in most cases of tracheal agenesis with esophagotracheal communication primary resuscitation is possible by esophageal intubation and by application of continuous positive pressure ventilation. Diagnosis must be confirmed by immediate contrast roentgenography or endoscopy. The results of surgery are disappointing until now.