My newborn was diagnosed with tracheoesophageal fistula (tef). what is this?

Malformation: When the structures that will form the breathing tube and swallowing tube begin to form in the fetus, a connection between the two develops.The final configuration can take several forms.An "H" connection, would allow swallowed material to cross into the lungs. Sometimes the connection to the stomach is lost, and a blind pouch is left. All require surgical intervention soon after birth.