Causes of neonatal intestinal obstruction

The causes of neonatal intestinal obstruction may include genetic factors, maternal environmental influences, physiological abnormalities, birth trauma and related pathological conditions, which require timely diagnosis and scientific treatment measures. Parents should be vigilant and seek medical attention as soon as possible if any abnormalities occur to ensure the health of the newborn.

1. Influence of genetic factors

Some neonatal intestinal obstructions may be related to genetics, such as certain rare intestinal diseases or congenital defects in the family. These genetic factors may interfere with the normal development of the fetal intestine, such as congenital inadequate development of the intestinal wall muscles. If an ultrasound examination during pregnancy finds abnormal fetal development, a detailed birth and early treatment plan should be developed under the guidance of a doctor.

2. The role of maternal environmental factors

The health of the mother during pregnancy will directly affect the development of the newborn. If the diet during pregnancy is malnourished and the mother is exposed to harmful substances such as drugs or toxic chemicals, it may cause poor development of the fetal intestine. Infections during pregnancy (such as viral or bacterial infections) may also increase the risk of intestinal obstruction. Pregnant women should maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle during pregnancy and have regular prenatal checkups to ensure that the fetus develops normally.

3. Congenital or physiological structural abnormalities

The most common physiological causes of neonatal intestinal obstruction include intestinal dysplasia and intestinal torsion. This is caused by the failure of the intestinal tract to form or rotate normally during the fetal period, and often manifests itself in symptoms such as severe vomiting, abdominal distension, and difficulty defecating within a few hours to a few days after birth. In this case, doctors need to diagnose through imaging (such as X-rays or B-ultrasound), and timely surgery may be required to resolve the obstruction.

4. Childbirth or perinatal trauma

During birth, newborns may suffer intestinal damage or occlusion due to dystocia or iatrogenic procedures. For example, fetal distress may cause intestinal ischemia and necrosis, leading to obstruction. This problem requires a comprehensive examination and timely intervention after delivery. Sometimes drug treatment is used to restore intestinal function, and severe cases may require surgery.

5. Associated pathological conditions

Severe neonatal diseases such as necrotizing enterocolitis, congenital Meckel's diverticulum, or intestinal strictures can cause intestinal obstruction. These pathologies often lead to further digestive problems and require surgical treatment (such as enterostomy or intestinal resection), as well as postoperative nutritional support and anti-infective treatment to ensure recovery.

Intestinal obstruction is a critical illness for newborns. If you observe symptoms such as frequent vomiting, abnormal abdominal distension, and no meconium discharge, you should take your child to the doctor as soon as possible to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and early intervention can effectively reduce the risk of complications and provide the greatest protection for the child's health.