Diagnosis and evaluation of esophageal atresia by direct sagittal CT.

Direct sagittal CT is possible in newborns because of their small body-size. With this noninvasive investigation, we were able to establish a correct diagnosis in two neonates with esophageal atresia. Moreover, the demonstration of the air-filled proximal pouch and distal tracheoesophageal fistula along their whole lengths allowed exclusion of the possibility of a proximal pouch fistula and gave knowledge of the exact distance of the two segments of the esophagus needed to be bridged to allow anastomosis, thus providing additional valuable information for the surgeon preoperatively.