T = tracheo-oesophageal fistula

[Guest guest]

I am looking at VACTERL. I want to know if EDS and VACTERL is known to

happen. I saw some items in PUBMED but it is vague as to what is first so far.

When it comes to VACTERL I have

V = vertebral (spinal) defects

mild levoscoliosis

A = anal (backpassage) defects

anal atresia (duplicate) and rectal duplication or a persistent cloaca. Or,

all of the above :-(.

C = cardiac (heart) defects

benign murmer

T = tracheo-oesophageal fistula

Well, I have had difficultly swallowing, but then I stretch :-(. On exam I

now recall being told in 1989, I had a narrowing. It meant I could not swallow

rice or grits easily. The food got stuck. After surgery in 1989 for fibroids

[weird, they told me that one fibroid had grown straight up like a knife blade

and had adhesions. Or so the doctor speculated!

E = esophageal atresia (American spelling)

no

R = renal (kidney) defects

born with one kidney

L = limb defects.

Nope. Just long lower arm and bigger hands than I would like as a lady. What

with the finger joints that bend both ways ... lol, so my knuckles are large.

Well, my left hip looks wrong. And the pelvis is too narrow. Caro.

VACTERL Many TOF babies are also born with other problems, most commonly

those described as ‘VACTERL’ –Ê a group of anomalies which often occur

together.

VACTERL babies have a combination of three or more of the following:

V = vertebral (spinal) defects

A = anal (backpassage) defects

C = cardiac (heart) defects

T = tracheo-oesophageal fistula

E = esophageal atresia (American spelling)

R = renal (kidney) defects

L = limb defects.

It is usual to check for heart or kidney problems using ultrasound scanning;

medical staff will explain any findings to you. More information about VACTERL

is available from TOFS.