Final answer:
The most common type of esophageal atresia in newborns is Esophageal Atresia with Distal Tracheoesophageal Fistula, where the upper esophagus ends in a blind pouch and the lower part connects to the trachea. Surgical repair is required for the baby to eat and breathe normally.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common type of esophageal atresia in newborns is known as Esophageal Atresia with Distal Tracheoesophageal Fistula (EA with distal TEF). In this condition, the upper part of the esophagus ends in a blind pouch, while the lower part connects to the trachea via a fistula. This causes the food that the newborn swallows to get trapped in the pouch or to go into the trachea instead of the stomach, which can result in breathing difficulties and the risk of pneumonia. Surgical correction to repair the esophagus and close the fistula is typically required after birth for these newborns to be able to eat normally and avoid complications.