Congenital choanal atresia in pediatric practice – a modern view of the problem

Choanal atresia is a congenital pathology in which the patency of the posterior portions of the nasal cavity is impaired. This condition occurs in newborn children and requires timely diagnosis and treatment because it makes breathing difficult, especially in infants who breathe mainly through the nose. Diagnosis of choanal atresia is based on clinical signs (difficulty breathing, cyanosis, inability to suckle) and confirmed by instrumental methods such as rhinoendoscopy and computed tomography. Treatment usually includes surgical correction to restore the patency of the choanae, which significantly improves the patient's quality of life and prevents possible complications. This article reviews the key aspects of diagnosis, surgical intervention, and postoperative management of patients with choanal atresia in pediatric practice.