Exploring h-type tracheo-esophageal fistula: Unveiling variations in three cases– a detailed case report and insightful discussion

H-type tracheo-esophageal fistula (HTEF) is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by a connection between the tracheal wall and anterior esophageal wall. HTEF occurs in approximately 4% of esophageal atresia. HTEF has unspecific symptoms, including cough, cyanosis during feeding, recurrent pneumonia, which contributes to delayed diagnostic, potentially leading to complications like aspiration pneumonia and respiratory distress. Airway management in these patients presents additional challenges, as inadvertent esophageal intubation is a plausible risk. This underlines the critical importance of an in-depth overview of HTEF to enhance awareness, early identification, and improve the overall management of this rare congenital anomaly. Increasing awareness among healthcare professionals is essential to facilitate early diagnosis, optimize patient care, and mitigate the risk of complications arising from delayed intervention. This case series will discuss about 3 cases of H-type tracheo-oesophageal fistula which is found accidentally.