Osseous choanal atresia - pediatric

Case contributed by Francesca Finazzo
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Respiratory distress in a newborn with a failure to pass a nasogastric tube.

Patient Data

Age: 2 days
Gender: Female

Narrowing of the posterior nasal cavity, inward bowing of the maxilla, enlargement of the posterior portion of the vomer and accumulation of secretions.

Case Discussion

Nasal endoscopy was performed and bilateral atresic plates of the choana were found.

Choanal atresia is a very common cause of neonatal nasal obstruction. Can be unilateral or more frequently bilateral. If bilateral requires an immediate diagnosis and treatment. When unilateral the diagnosis is later when there is rhinorrhea or infection. Choanal atresia is classified as osseous (more common), membranous, or both.

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