- Academic Editor
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†These authors contributed equally.
Background:
Prenatal esophageal atresia (EA) diagnosis may improve outcomes by optimizing
prenatal and postnatal care. This study evaluated the feasibility of direct
antenatal visualization of normal longitudinal esophageal sections using
two-dimensional ultrasound between 21 and 23 gestational weeks. Methods:
A detailed prenatal anatomic survey was performed, followed by dedicated
esophageal imaging. The latter was performed as follows: coronal sections of the
thoracic aorta were obtained; the sound beam was then moved ventrally; and
strip-shaped high echoes with three or more hyperechoic layers were identified as
the esophagus. Images showing the longest esophageal segment were used to measure
the esophageal length and angle (between the thoracic aorta and esophagus).
Results: Longitudinal esophageal sections were visualized in 94.0% (n =
205/218) of patients. The visualization rates between fetuses in
different positions were statistically significant (p