Gastrointestinal Tract Perforation in the Newborn and Child: Imaging Assessment

Gary R Schooler1, Joseph T Davis1, Edward Y Lee2

  • 1Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, 1905 Children׳s Health Center, Durham, NC.

Insights

Pediatric gastrointestinal tract perforation has many causes, from congenital issues to foreign bodies. Imaging is key for diagnosing and monitoring these perforations in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Radiology
  • Gastrointestinal Imaging
  • Abdominal Emergencies

Background:

  • Gastrointestinal tract perforation in children presents diverse etiologies.
  • Accurate diagnosis and follow-up imaging are critical for pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review common causes of pediatric gastrointestinal perforation.
  • To describe imaging findings for various etiologies.
  • To outline imaging strategies for diagnosis and management.

Main Methods:

  • Review of pediatric gastrointestinal perforation cases.
  • Analysis of imaging findings across different etiologies.
  • Discussion of diagnostic and follow-up imaging protocols.

Main Results:

  • Common etiologies include congenital anomalies and foreign body ingestion.
  • Characteristic imaging manifestations are presented for each etiology.
  • Effective imaging assessment strategies are detailed.

Conclusions:

  • Radiologists require a systematic approach to diagnose pediatric gastrointestinal perforation.
  • Understanding common etiologies and their imaging features aids timely diagnosis.
  • Appropriate imaging assessment is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.

Related Concept Videos

Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management01:28

Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management

Esophageal perforations manifest in various clinical forms, influenced by factors such as the perforation's cause and location (cervical, intrathoracic, or intra-abdominal), the extent of contamination, and potential injury to adjacent mediastinal structures. The timing between the perforation occurrence and treatment initiation also affects the clinical presentation.
Clinical Manifestations:
930
Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction01:22

Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction

Esophageal perforation is a severe medical condition characterized by a breach in the integrity of the esophageal wall. This breach can occur due to various factors such as trauma, medical procedures, or underlying diseases. When the esophageal wall is compromised, it allows food, fluids, and digestive juices into the chest cavity or adjacent structures, leading to potential complications and health risks.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus....
740
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI01:14

Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI

Introduction: MRI and CT scans are crucial advancements in medical imaging techniques, playing a vital role in diagnosing conditions related to the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Each scan serves distinct purposes, targets specific areas, and requires unique nursing duties.
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
1.1K
Imaging Studies III: Gastrointestinal Motility Studies and Virtual Colonoscopy01:26

Imaging Studies III: Gastrointestinal Motility Studies and Virtual Colonoscopy

This lesson explores three gastrointestinal imaging techniques: radionuclide testing, colonic transit studies, and virtual colonoscopy.
Radionuclide Testing
Radionuclide testing is a sophisticated medical technique for assessing gastrointestinal motility. It focuses on gastric emptying and colonic transit time. Radioactive markers track the movement of food through the digestive system, providing insights into gastrointestinal disorders.
In gastric emptying studies, a meal's liquid and...
593
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption01:23

Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption

Understanding the physiological differences in the pediatric population is crucial for effective pharmacotherapy. Neonates, infants, and children exhibit significant variations in gastric pH, gastric emptying time, intestinal transit time, and biliary function. These variations profoundly affect oral drug absorption, necessitating a nuanced approach to pediatric dosing.Neonates present with a unique physiological profile, having a gastric pH greater than 4 and faster and more irregular gastric...
697
Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan01:30

Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan

Description
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
846