Clinical importance of a fixed bowel loop in the treatment of necrotizing enterocolitis

The need for surgical treatment in neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is associated with high mortality. Although pneumoperitoneum and progressive disease are generally accepted indications for surgery, it is unclear whether a fixed bowel loop (FBL) should prompt surgery.

To determine the relationship between an FBL, type of treatment, and death in the management of NEC.

Retrospective analysis (January 2000-December 2011) of all neonates with definite NEC in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit. FBL was defined as a persistent (i.e. >24 h) dilated intestinal segment present on serial abdominal X-rays.

NEC was diagnosed in 141 neonates (median gestational age 30 weeks; median birth weight 1,340 g). An FBL was reported in 38 (27%) patients, of whom 18 were treated surgically. Mortality among FBL patients was independent of the type of treatment (surgical versus conservative): 8/18 and 7/20, respectively (p = 0.55). Of the 103 patients without FBL, 37 (36%) were treated surgically, which is comparable to the FBL group. Again, mortality was not related to the type of treatment (surgical versus conservative): 5/37 and 6/66, respectively (p = 0.49). The presence of an FBL was associated with mortality: more patients with an FBL (15/38, 39%) died than without an FBL (11/103, 11%; odds ratio 5.45, 95% confidence interval 2.21-13.45; p < 0.01).

In NEC patients, an FBL is associated with increased mortality. On its own it has moderate significance to guide treatment. Nevertheless, because it reflects disease severity, early recognition is important and prompt (surgical) treatment should be considered.