LATE THIRD TRIMESTER ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSIS OF DUODENAL ATRESIA - THE IMPORTANCE OF DETAILED PRENATAL ULTRASOUND...

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Pediatric Surgery
• Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Duodenal atresia (DA) is the most frequent cause of congenital small bowel obstruction in newborns.
• Associated anomalies are common in fetuses with DA, increasing perinatal morbidity and mortality.
• Prompt surgical intervention is critical for survival, as DA can be fatal if untreated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of prenatal diagnosis of duodenal atresia.
• To report a case of successful prenatal diagnosis of DA.
• To review the literature on associated anomalies and management of DA.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 34-year-old multiparous woman.
• Prenatal diagnosis of DA using ultrasonography at 36 weeks gestation.
• Literature review on duodenal atresia.

Main Results:

• Duodenal atresia was diagnosed prenatally via ultrasound.
• The case occurred in a setting where targeted prenatal anomaly screening was recently implemented.
• Literature review confirmed the significance of associated anomalies and the benefits of early diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• Prenatal diagnosis of duodenal atresia through ultrasonography is feasible and beneficial.
• Routine prenatal screening for fetal anomalies can reduce perinatal morbidity and mortality associated with DA.
• Early detection and surgical planning are crucial for improving outcomes in neonates with duodenal atresia.