[Early diagnosis and therapy of jejunoileal atresia]

Clinical symptoms of atresia of the small intestine with dramatic symptoms are manifested soon after delivery by severe emesis with the risk of aspiration of the intestinal contents. This malformation is manifested by an increased volume of amniotic fluid and it is possible to diagnose it from this symptom and dilated intestinal loops by ultrasound a long time before delivery. In the described case the authors confirmed the thus revealed obstacle by X-ray examination of the abdomen in a suspended position and by irrigoscopy. On operation they had to eliminate on account of atresia of several separate segments more than half the small intestine. By parenteral nutrition, antibiotics and permanent paediatric care the authors controlled all complications and after eight and a half months the operated infant could be discharged. Gradually it compensated the initial deficit of body weight. The psychomotor development was accelerated.