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Gastrointestinal perforations in the neonatal period
O Zamir1, S C Shapira, R Udassin
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hadassah University Hospital, Mount Scopus, Jerusalem, Israel.
American Journal of Perinatology
|April 1, 1988
Summary
Neonatal gastrointestinal perforation, often linked to necrotizing enterocolitis, presents a significant challenge. While outcomes for idiopathic perforations are better, overall mortality remains high, underscoring treatment difficulties.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal surgery
- Pediatric gastroenterology
- Critical care medicine
Background:
- Gastrointestinal perforation is a serious condition in newborns.
- Complications include prematurity, obstetric, and postnatal issues.
- Necrotizing enterocolitis is a primary cause, alongside idiopathic and meconium ileus-associated perforations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the outcomes of surgical treatment for neonatal gastrointestinal perforations.
- To identify risk factors and causes of perforation.
- To evaluate mortality rates associated with different etiologies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 48 neonates treated for gastrointestinal perforation over 9 years.
- Analysis of perforation causes, patient demographics, and treatment strategies.
- Comparison of mortality rates based on perforation etiology.
Main Results:
- Overall mortality rate was 46%.
- Necrotizing enterocolitis had the highest mortality (62%), while idiopathic perforation had a 14% mortality rate.
- Most perforations (30/48) occurred within the first week of life, predominantly in preterm infants (36/48).
Conclusions:
- Neonatal gastrointestinal perforation, particularly due to necrotizing enterocolitis, carries a high mortality rate.
- Idiopathic perforations have a significantly better prognosis.
- Despite advancements, the management of neonatal gastrointestinal perforations remains challenging, highlighting the need for improved prevention and treatment strategies for necrotizing enterocolitis.