**7. Esophageal, gastrointestinal, and anorectal atresia**

#### **7.1. Pregnancy management**

Prenatal sonographic diagnosis of gastrointestinal atresia is challenging since obstruction may not become evident sonographically until the late second trimester, after the typical time of a fetal anatomic survey (18–20 weeks of gestation). It can also be difficult to differentiate dilated small bowel loops from colon or megaureters sonographically [86]. It is unclear whether prenatal diagnosis of esophageal, gastrointestinal, or anorectal atresia improves the prognosis. However, early prenatal diagnosis provides an opportunity for parental counseling and preparation, screening for associated anomalies, and the option for pregnancy termination or delivery at a setting with appropriate personnel and facilities for newborn care [86].

