What are the causes of intestinal obstruction in newborns?

Treatments for neonatal intestinal obstruction include surgery to relieve the obstruction, drug therapy to relieve symptoms, and nutritional support to maintain body function. Common causes include congenital intestinal malformations, meconium ileus, intestinal malrotation, etc.

1. Congenital intestinal malformation is one of the common causes of intestinal obstruction in newborns. During embryonic development, the intestine may be closed, narrow or repeated, resulting in intestinal contents being unable to pass normally. Treatment methods include surgical resection of the deformed part, intestinal anastomosis, intestinal fistula, etc. After the operation, the child's recovery needs to be closely monitored, and a second operation should be performed if necessary.

2. Meconium ileus often occurs in newborns with cystic fibrosis. Meconium is too sticky and blocks the intestines, leading to intestinal obstruction. Treatments include enema to remove meconium, surgical resection of the obstructed part, and drug therapy to relieve symptoms. Preventive measures include screening for cystic fibrosis genes during pregnancy, early diagnosis and treatment of newborns.

3. Intestinal malrotation is caused by incomplete or abnormal intestinal rotation during the embryonic period, which may lead to intestinal torsion or mesenteric compression, causing intestinal obstruction. Treatment methods include surgical repositioning of the intestine, resection of necrotic intestinal segments, and fixation of the intestine to prevent recurrence. The timing of surgery is crucial, and early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of complications.

4. Other causes include intussusception, congenital megacolon, intestinal tumors, etc. Intussusception is more common in infancy and requires timely air or liquid enema reduction, and surgery if necessary. Congenital megacolon requires surgical resection of the aganglion cell-free intestinal segment and reconstruction of the intestinal pathway. Intestinal tumors are relatively rare and require surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy according to the nature of the tumor.

Early diagnosis and treatment of neonatal intestinal obstruction is crucial. Parents should pay close attention to the newborn's bowel movements, abdominal signs and general condition, and seek medical attention promptly if any abnormalities are found. Through comprehensive treatment with surgery, medication and nutritional support, most children can achieve a good prognosis and restore normal intestinal function and quality of life.