Overview Of Duodenal Atresia
Duodenal atresia is a condition in which the first part of the small bowel (the duodenum) has not developed properly. It is not open and cannot allow the passage of stomach contents.
Causes Of Duodenal Atresia
The cause of duodenal atresia is not known. It is thought to result from problems during an embryo’s development. The duodenum does not change from a solid to a tube-like structure, as it normally would.
Many infants with this disease also have Down syndrome. It is often associated with other birth defects.
Symptoms of duodenal atresia include:
- Upper abdominal swelling (sometimes)
- Early vomiting of large amounts, which may be greenish (containing bile)
- Continued vomiting even when infant has not been fed for several hours
- No bowel movements after first few meconium stools
Exams and Tests
A fetal ultrasound may show high amounts of amniotic fluid in the womb (polyhydramnios). It may also show swelling of the baby’s stomach and part of the duodenum.
An abdominal x-ray may show air in the stomach and the first part of the duodenum, with no air beyond that. This is known as the double-bubble sign.
Treatment Of Duodenal Atresia
A tube is placed to decompress the stomach. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances are corrected by providing fluids through an intravenous tube (IV, into a vein). Checking for other congenital anomalies should be done.
Surgery to correct the duodenal blockage is necessary, but not an emergency. The exact surgery will depend on the nature of the abnormality. Other problems (such as those related to Down syndrome) must be treated as appropriate.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Recovery from the duodenal atresia is expected after treatment. If not treated, the condition is deadly.
Possible Complications
These complications may occur:
- Other birth defects
- Dehydration
After surgery, there may be complications such as:
- Swelling of the first part of the small bowel
- Problems with movement through the intestines
- Gastroesophageal reflux
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if your newborn is:
- Feeding poorly or not at all
- Vomiting (not simply spitting up) or if the vomit is green
- Not urinating or having bowel movements
Prevention Of Duodenal Atresia
There is no known prevention.
