Related Experiment Videos
Entero-enteric fistula following mild necrotizing enterocolitis
Summary
A newborn developed an entero-enteric fistula and small bowel stricture after necrotizing enterocolitis. This fistula can delay diagnosis and treatment of the stricture in newborns with a history of necrotizing enterocolitis.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal surgery
- Pediatric gastroenterology
- Gastrointestinal complications
Background:
- Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious condition in premature infants.
- Small bowel strictures can occur after NEC, leading to obstruction.
- Entero-enteric fistulas are abnormal connections between intestinal segments.
Observation:
- A 26-week gestational age infant experienced a mild NEC episode.
- The infant subsequently developed an entero-enteric fistula.
- This fistula was associated with a small bowel stricture.
Findings:
- The entero-enteric fistula complicated the diagnosis of the small bowel stricture.
- Surgical treatment for the stricture was delayed due to the fistula.
- The fistula presented as partial or intermittent bowel obstruction.
Implications:
- Consider entero-enteric fistulas in newborns with a history of NEC presenting with obstruction.
- Early recognition of fistulas is crucial for timely surgical intervention.
- This case highlights a rare but significant complication of NEC.