Tracheoesophageal Fistula Repair Treatment in Turkey – Best Hospitals & Doctors

Learn about Tracheoesophageal Fistula Repair Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Tracheoesophageal Fistula Repair and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

Partner Hospitals

0 partner in Turkey for this surgery

Specialist Doctors

12 Surgeons linked to this surgery

Treatment Cost

USD 12,293 – USD 40,978

About Tracheoesophageal Fistula Repair

Tracheoesophageal Fistula (TEF) Repair is a critical surgical procedure performed by an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgeon to correct an abnormal connection (fistula) between the windpipe (trachea) and the food pipe (esophagus). This condition can lead to severe complications like recurrent pneumonia, choking, and malnutrition, as food or liquids can enter the lungs. The surgery involves separating the two structures, closing the openings, and reconstructing the normal anatomy, typically through an incision in the neck or chest. It is a life-saving and definitive treatment that restores safe swallowing and breathing, preventing long-term respiratory damage and improving overall quality of life.

Key Highlights

Definitive correction of the abnormal connection between airway and food pipe.Prevents life-threatening complications like aspiration pneumonia.Restores normal swallowing and breathing functions.Performed by specialized ENT surgeons with expertise in neck and airway anatomy.Can significantly improve long-term quality of life and nutritional status.

Who is this surgery for?

Congenital tracheoesophageal fistula (often diagnosed in newborns).
Acquired fistula due to prolonged intubation, trauma, or infection.
Fistula resulting from malignancy in the neck or chest region.
Recurrent aspiration pneumonia or respiratory infections.
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or coughing during eating/drinking.
Failure of conservative management for a known fistula.

How to prepare

Comprehensive diagnostic workup including imaging (barium swallow, CT scan) and endoscopy.
Nutritional optimization, possibly with feeding tube placement.
Management of any active lung infection with antibiotics.
Pre-operative anesthesia evaluation and clearance.
Discussion of surgical risks, benefits, and informed consent.
Fasting as instructed prior to surgery.

Risks & possible complications

Bleeding, infection, or reaction to anesthesia.
Recurrence of the fistula (re-fistulization).
Injury to nearby structures like the recurrent laryngeal nerve (causing hoarseness).
Stricture (narrowing) of the esophagus or trachea post-repair.
Leakage from the surgical suture lines.
Persistent swallowing difficulties or aspiration.
Scar formation at the incision site.

Recovery & hospital stay

Initial recovery in the hospital with close monitoring of breathing and vital signs.
Pain management with prescribed medications.
Feeding may initially be through a nasogastric or gastrostomy tube until swallowing is safe.
A gradual transition to oral fluids and soft foods under guidance.
Follow-up endoscopies or imaging to ensure proper healing.
Avoidance of strenuous activity and heavy lifting for the recommended period.
Speech or swallowing therapy may be recommended if needed.

Typical hospital stay: 5-14 days
Expected recovery time: 3-6 weeks for initial recovery; full healing may take several months

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering tracheoesophageal fistula repair in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

＋ − Which hospitals are best for tracheoesophageal fistula repair in Turkey?

Top-rated hospitals in Turkey with ent departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.

＋ − How do I choose the right doctor for tracheoesophageal fistula repair?

Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform tracheoesophageal fistula repair. MediFyr helps you compare ent specialists and book consultations online.

＋ − What factors affect the cost of tracheoesophageal fistula repair?

The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.

Get assistance for Tracheoesophageal Fistula Repair

Share a few details and our team will help you compare hospitals, understand costs, and schedule a consultation with the right specialist.

Real People Helping Real Patients!
Get Assistance.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for tracheoesophageal fistula repair compare across other countries where we have data.

Country	Estimated cost range	Typical stay	Recovery time	View details
India	USD 1,652 – USD 5,506	5-14 days	~ 3-6 weeks for initial recovery; full healing may take several months	Know More
Turkey	USD 12,293 – USD 40,978	5-14 days	~ 3-6 weeks for initial recovery; full healing may take several months	Know More

PATIENT REVIEW

Olivia Miller, a 68-year-old retired librarian,...

Olivia Miller, a 68-year-old retired librarian, had a history of chronic acid reflux. For months, she experienced worsening coughing fits, especially when drinking liquids, and recurrent bouts of pneumonia. After choking on water during a book club meeting, she saw her GP who referred her to an ENT specialist. A barium swallow test confirmed a tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), an abnormal connection between her windpipe and esophagus. The ENT surgeon, Dr. Evans, explained that the chronic reflux had eroded the tissue, creating the fistula. He recommended surgical repair to close the abnormal connection, stating it was necessary to prevent life-threatening lung infections and allow her to eat and drink safely. Olivia underwent a right thoracotomy for the TEF repair, which involved separating the trachea and esophagus and closing each with tissue grafts. The surgery was successful but required a week in the hospital with a temporary feeding tube. Post-procedure, Olivia spent six weeks on a soft diet and underwent swallowing therapy. Her recovery was gradual, but the choking episodes stopped completely, and she has had no further pneumonias. Emotionally, Olivia was terrified before the surgery, fearing she would never enjoy a meal with friends again. After recovery, she felt profound relief and a renewed appreciation for simple pleasures, like sharing a cup of tea without fear.