Study note
PediatricsNewborn Care

Recognition of neonatal intestinal obstruction

THE CONTEXT
Neonatal intestinal obstruction is a surgical emergency requiring early diagnosis and management.

Presentation and investigation

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Neonatal intestinal obstruction occurs in approximately 1 in 2000 live births.
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Diagnosis is usually based on abdominal distension or bilious vomiting together with a plain abdominal X-ray.
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Investigate every newborn with bilious vomiting for possible obstruction, whether or not abdominal distension is present.
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Early diagnosis and management are key to good outcomes.

Associated illustrated finding

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The accompanying esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula illustration shows a coiled nasogastric tube.
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