Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 13, 2026

Postoperative Ileus Murine Model
Published on: July 12, 2024
Meconium Ileus
John H T Waldhausen1, Morgan Richards1
1Department of Surgery, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington.
Insights
Cystic fibrosis (CF) commonly affects Caucasians, often requiring surgery for meconium ileus and its complications. This review covers gastrointestinal issues in CF, from neonatal surgical management to long-term conditions like distal intestinal obstructive syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Genetics
Background:
- Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a common inherited disorder in Caucasian populations.
- Gastrointestinal (GI) complications are frequent in CF patients.
- Meconium ileus is a primary surgical concern in neonates with CF.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of cystic fibrosis on the gastrointestinal tract.
- To discuss the management of meconium ileus in the neonatal period.
- To outline long-term GI issues in individuals with cystic fibrosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of cystic fibrosis and gastrointestinal manifestations.
- Discussion of surgical and non-operative management strategies for meconium ileus.
- Analysis of long-term complications including distal intestinal obstructive syndrome, fibrosing colonopathy, and rectal prolapse.
Main Results:
- Meconium ileus and its complications frequently necessitate surgical intervention in neonates with CF.
- Both operative and non-operative approaches are used for meconium ileus management.
- Older children and adults with CF can develop chronic GI issues.
Conclusions:
- Cystic fibrosis significantly impacts the GI system throughout a patient's life.
- Effective management of neonatal meconium ileus is crucial.
- Long-term surveillance and management of conditions like distal intestinal obstructive syndrome are essential for CF patients.
Abstract:
Cystic fibrosis is one of the most common inheritable traits in Caucasians. Meconium ileus and its potential complications are the most likely reasons that these patients will need surgical care. Surgical intervention is usually needed in the neonatal period but may also be required later in life. This article discusses the various ways cystic fibrosis can affect the gastrointestinal tract. Both the operative and nonoperative management of complicated and uncomplicated meconium ileus are discussed in the neonatal period as well as long-term issues, such as distal intestinal obstructive syndrome, fibrosing colonopathy, and rectal prolapse, all of which may be seen in older children and adults.
More Related Videos
09:44Functional Assessment of Intestinal Motility and Gut Wall Inflammation in Rodents: Analyses in a Standardized Model of Intestinal Manipulation
Published on: September 11, 2012
06:15Protocol and Guidelines for Point-of-Care Lung Ultrasound in Diagnosing Neonatal Pulmonary Diseases Based on International Expert Consensus
Published on: March 6, 2019