Neonatal Intestinal Obstruction Flashcards
1
Q
How common is neonatal intestinal obstruction?
A
The most common surgical emergency in neonates
2
Q
What are the causes of neonatal intestinal obstruction?
A
- Hirschprung’s disease
- Meconium ileus
- Meconium plug syndrome
- Intussusception
- Duodenal/ileal/colonic atresia
- Neonatal small left colon syndrome
3
Q
How does neonatal intestinal obstruction present?
A
- Failure to pass meconium in first 24 hours of life
- Vomiting with/without bile stained
- Increased gastric residuals
- Abdominal distension
- Absent or decreased bowel sounds
4
Q
How should suspected neonatal intestinal obstruction be investigated?
A
- Thorough examination and assessment of circulation
- AXR
- Gastrografin enema
- Look for associated abnormalities
5
Q
What is the definitive treatment of neonatal intestinal obstruction?
A
Treatment of underlying cause
6
Q
How else can neonatal intestinal obstruction be managed?
A
- Place infant in incubator
- Orogastric tube on low-pressure suction
- NBM
- IV fluids
7
Q
What are the potential complications of neonatal intestinal obstruction?
A
- Acidosis
- Shock
- Perforation
