Discharge Instructions: Choanal Atresia

Important information about choanal atresia:

Choanal atresia is a blockage of the nasal passages by bony or soft tissue. Choanal stenosis is a narrowing of the nasal passages. These conditions are present at birth and can occur in one or both nasal passages. When both sides of the nose are affected, the symptoms can be worse since newborns breathe through their noses. 

Symptoms of choanal atresia

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Unable to breathe and eat at the same time

  • Bluish color on the lips 

  • Chest muscles pulling in between the ribs during breathing

Choanal atresia is repaired in an operation that removes the bone or tissue blocking the nasal passages. Nasal stents (small plastic tubes) may be inserted in the new openings and held in place with stitches. You may be able to see the stents. The stents are left in place for 4-10 weeks to keep the nasal passages open. Your child may need more operations to remove the stents or to open the nasal passages further.

Patient instructions: 

After the operation, your child will stay overnight. We will monitor their breathing and teach you how to care for the nasal stents. You will go home when your child is feeding and breathing well.

  • Give acetaminophen (Tylenol®) as needed for discomfort. Follow the dosing instructions on the label.

  • Your child may have bloody drainage from the nose that will decrease in 3-5 days. 

  • If your child has nasal stents, you need to keep them clear of mucus so your child can breathe. Use saline drops and gentle suction as directed by your surgeon. Be sure to suction before feedings so your child can breathe and eat at the same time.

  • Your healthcare team may prescribe antibiotics to prevent an infection. Follow the directions and finish all the medicine.

  • You may bathe and wash your child’s hair. Do not dunk your child’s head under the water.

  • Try to keep your child away from people with colds.

  • Your child may return to daycare/school if the caregivers know how to give saline drops and suction the nasal stents.

Contact your CHOP ENT team with questions, concerns or if: 

  • Your child has trouble breathing, rapid breathing, chest muscle pulling (retractions), or is unable to breathe and eat at the same time

  • There is thick nasal mucus or bloody drainage 

  • Your child has a temperature greater than 101.3°F (38.5°C) taken under the arm, or greater than 102.2°F (39°C) by mouth or by rectum

Division of Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose and Throat)

215-590-3440

7 days per week/24 hours

 

Reviewed February 2024