About Choanal atresia, bilateral

What is Choanal atresia, bilateral?

Choanal atresia, bilateral is a rare birth defect in which the nasal passages are blocked due to the absence of the nasal choanae, which are the openings between the nasal cavity and the throat. This condition is usually present at birth and can cause breathing difficulties, feeding problems, and recurrent ear infections. Treatment typically involves surgical reconstruction of the nasal passages.

What are the symptoms of Choanal atresia, bilateral?

The symptoms of bilateral choanal atresia include:

-Difficulty breathing through the nose
-Noisy breathing
-Noisy or labored breathing during feeding
-Cyanosis (bluish skin color)
-Recurrent respiratory infections
-Nasal obstruction
-Nasal discharge
-Snoring
-Sleep apnea
-Poor weight gain
-Failure to thrive

What are the causes of Choanal atresia, bilateral?

1. Congenital: Choanal atresia is a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth. It is caused by abnormal development of the nasal passages during fetal development.

2. Genetic: Choanal atresia can be caused by genetic mutations, such as mutations in the genes that control the development of the nasal passages.

3. Environmental: Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as certain medications, alcohol, or smoking during pregnancy, can increase the risk of choanal atresia.

4. Infection: Infections during pregnancy, such as rubella or cytomegalovirus, can increase the risk of choanal atresia.

5. Trauma: Trauma to the head or face during pregnancy can increase the risk of choanal atresia.

What are the treatments for Choanal atresia, bilateral?

1. Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for choanal atresia, bilateral. The goal of the surgery is to create a new opening in the back of the nose so that air can pass through. The surgery is usually done under general anesthesia and involves making an incision in the back of the nose and then using a special instrument to create a new opening.

2. Stenting: Stenting is another option for treating choanal atresia, bilateral. This involves placing a small tube in the back of the nose to keep the new opening open. The tube is usually left in place for several weeks or months until the opening is fully healed.

3. Nasal Dilators: Nasal dilators are small devices that can be inserted into the nose to help keep the new opening open. They are usually used in combination

What are the risk factors for Choanal atresia, bilateral?

1. Genetic factors: Bilateral choanal atresia is often associated with genetic syndromes such as CHARGE syndrome, Treacher Collins syndrome, and Goldenhar syndrome.

2. Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as alcohol, during pregnancy may increase the risk of choanal atresia.

3. Maternal infections: Maternal infections, such as rubella, during pregnancy may increase the risk of choanal atresia.

4. Prematurity: Premature babies are more likely to have choanal atresia than full-term babies.

5. Family history: A family history of choanal atresia increases the risk of the condition.

Is there a cure/medications for Choanal atresia, bilateral?

Yes, there is a surgical procedure called a choanal atresia repair that can be used to treat bilateral choanal atresia. This procedure involves creating a new opening in the back of the nose to allow air to pass through. In some cases, medications such as antibiotics and steroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and help with healing.