Module
19
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Pathology of the foregut

In the lower foregut region fistulas, stenosis and ectopic tissue also form the main class of the abnormalities.

 

Abnormalities in the esophagus region

The most frequent disorders such as fistulas or atresias of the esophagus are associated with abnormalities of the developing respiratory tract.

Fig. 45 - Abnormalities of the esophagus
media/module19/s8h_OesophMissbildung.gif

A
Atresia of the esophagus with a beginning fistula
B
Atresia of the esophagus
C
Atresia of the esophagus with fistula of the lower esophagus - a section to the trachea
D
Atresia of the esophagus with fistula of the upper esophagus - a section to the trachea
1
Trachea
2
Esophagus

Legend
Fig. 45

There are many variations of abnormal relationships between the trachea (1) and esophagus (2)

Other, more seldom abnormalities such as stenosis of the esophagus result from a missing recanalization during development. Both with atresias and with stenosis of the esophagus the fetus cannot swallow and thus reabsorb amniotic fluid, a situation leading to a polyhydramnion.

 

Pyloric stenosis

The pyloric stenosis arises through a hyperplasia of the pyloric sphincter muscle and is a relatively frequent disorder, mainly in male newborns. It leads to sudden and convulsive vomiting and can be rectified by a longitudinal incision of the pyloric sphincter muscle.

 

Duodenal stenosis

Stenosis as well as atresias can also occur in the small intestine. As in the esophagus they are based on an absent recanalization of the lumen. Such disorders are nevertheless very seldom.