DefinePK

Abstract

Choanal atresia (CA) is a rare, congenital malformation resulting as a failure incommunication between the posterior nasal cavity and the nasopharynx. The clinical course isoften asymptomatic in unilateral CA leading to higher rates of misdiagnosis, in comparison tobilateral CA, which manifests itself as a surgical emergency at birth. Most cases present asisolated malformations, but it may also be associated with other congenital anomalies in 20-50%of cases. Currently, the most important diagnostic tool for CA is computerized tomography (CT)and confirmatory diagnosis is usually achieved with the help of nasoendoscopic examination.Although, different surgical approaches have been used in the past, transnasal endoscopicrepair is currently preferred over others. Herein, we describe our experience of three cases andshare our simple stentless endoscopic technique, to facilitate physicians working in low facilityunits for a timely diagnosis and prompt treatment.