Atresia of small intestine
Atresia of the Small Intestine Atresia of the small intestine is a rare congenital condition characterized by the absence or closure of a portion of the small intestine. This condition can lead to significant complications in newborns, including intestinal obstruction and impaired nutrient absorption.
Etiology[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of small intestine atresia is not well understood, but it is believed to result from an interruption in the blood supply to the developing intestine during fetal development. This interruption can lead to tissue necrosis and resorption, resulting in a gap or closure in the intestinal tract.
Types[edit | edit source]
Small intestine atresia can be classified into several types based on the location and nature of the obstruction:
- Duodenal Atresia: Occurs in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. It is often associated with Down syndrome and other congenital anomalies.
- Jejunal Atresia: Affects the jejunum, the middle section of the small intestine.
- Ileal Atresia: Involves the ileum, the final section of the small intestine.
Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
Newborns with small intestine atresia typically present with symptoms shortly after birth, including:
- Bilious vomiting
- Abdominal distension
- Failure to pass meconium
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis is usually made through a combination of prenatal imaging and postnatal clinical evaluation. Prenatal ultrasound may reveal polyhydramnios and dilated bowel loops. After birth, an abdominal X-ray can show air-fluid levels and a "double bubble" sign in cases of duodenal atresia.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The primary treatment for small intestine atresia is surgical intervention. The procedure involves:
- Resection of the atretic segment
- Anastomosis of the healthy ends of the intestine
Postoperative care is crucial and includes nutritional support, often through total parenteral nutrition (TPN) until the infant can tolerate enteral feeding.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
With prompt surgical treatment, the prognosis for infants with small intestine atresia is generally good. However, long-term outcomes depend on the length of the remaining intestine and the presence of any associated anomalies.
Complications[edit | edit source]
Potential complications include:
- Short bowel syndrome, if a significant portion of the intestine is removed
- Intestinal strictures or adhesions
- Malabsorption and growth delays
See Also[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Atresia of small intestine is a rare disease.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
