INTESTINAL ATRESIA

Overview & Facts

  • A malformation manifesting as a narrowing or absence of part of the intestine.
    • May occur in the small or large intestine.

Types & Symptoms

  • Different types are named after where they occur:
    • Duodenal atresia – affecting the duodenum, part of the intestine that empties from the stomach.
      • Most common type.
      • Strong association with Down’s syndrome.
    • Jejunal atresia – affecting the jejunum, the second part of the small intestine in between the duodenum and ileum.
    • Ileal atresia – affecting the ileum, the lower part of the small intestine.
      • 2nd most common type.
    • Colon atresia – affecting the colon.

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

  • Physician may do/request:
    • History & Physical Exam
    • Prenatal examination
      • Sonogram
      • Ultrasound
      • Amniocentesis

 

RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS

  • Surgery for fetal and neonatal intestinal atresia.
    • Laparotomy after birth.

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