AN OVERVIEW OF NEONATAL INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION: A REVIEW OF LITERATURE.

Abstract

Aim: To highlight the common causes, pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnostic 
investigations and treatment of the common differentials of neonatal intestinal obstruction.
Method: Review of literature was done which encompassed common causes, pathophysiology, 
clinical features, diagnostic investigations and treatment of the common differentials of 
neonatal intestinal obstruction.
Result: Neonatal Intestinal Obstruction, the inhibition of flow of intestinal content, is mostly 
caused by congenital surgical conditions which result in mechanical or functional obstruction. 
Mechanical obstruction could be intraluminal e.g. Meconium ileus/plug; intramural e.g. Atresia, 
Stenosis and extramural e.g. Bands. Common examples of functional obstruction include 
Hirschsprung’s disease and Neonatal sepsis.
The pathophysiology results in hypovolaemia and bacteria-translocation. The clinical features 
include abdominal distension, constipation, bilious vomiting, dehydration, hypothermia/fever.
Prenatal ultrasound finding of polyhydramnios is suggestive of pathologies like duodenal 
atresia. Postnatal, diagnosis is confirmed by abdominal radiograph (bowel dilatation and airfluid levels) or contrast studies e.g. corkscrew appearance in malrotation. 
Treatment includes fluid-electrolyte resuscitation, nasogastric decompression, antibiotics, vital 
signs/hourly urine monitoring and definitive surgical procedure. 
Conclusion: Neonatal intestinal obstruction is a common surgical emergency amongst neonates 
for which early diagnosis and intervention, as well as support care facilities and trained staff of 
different specialties are crucial to having a good outcome