The diagnosis of primary and recurrent tracheoesophageal fistulas: value of selective catheterization.

To avoid an unnecessary second thoracotomy, unequivocal demonstration of a recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula after repair of esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula is mandatory. Transesophageal selective catheterization of the fistula during cineesophagography may resolve the ambiguities of routine cineesophagography and rod lens telescopic bronchoscopy.