Laryngotracheoesophageal cleft: report of a case successfully treated and review of the literature.

Laryngotracheoesophageal cleft is a rare but potentially curable anomaly. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of neonatal respiratory distress aggravated by feeding. Diagnosis is difficult, and repeat endoscopic procedures may be necessary. Immediate surgical repair is indicated. Incorporation of part of the esophageal wall into the repair may enhance success. Tracheostomy has been required in all survivors. Because a cleft may be associated with esophageal atresia and/or tracheoesophageal fistula, its presence should be suspected in patients with these conditions who have persistent symptoms after successful repair.