Related Experiment Video

Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Modeling Encephalopathy of Prematurity Using Prenatal Hypoxia-ischemia with Intra-amniotic Lipopolysaccharide in Rats
07:36

Modeling Encephalopathy of Prematurity Using Prenatal Hypoxia-ischemia with Intra-amniotic Lipopolysaccharide in Rats

Published on: November 20, 2015

12.0K

Meconium-related ileus in extremely low birthweight infants: Growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes

Shogo Zuo1, Yasuhiro Kuroda1, Hiromichi Kanehiro1

  • 1Department of Surgery, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan.

Pediatrics International : Official Journal of the Japan Pediatric Society
|March 30, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Meconium-related ileus (MRI) in extremely low birthweight infants (ELBWIs) is common and delays nutrition, but does not impact long-term growth or neurodevelopment. This study investigated MRI incidence, factors, and outcomes in ELBWIs.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatalogy
  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Developmental Pediatrics

Background:

  • Meconium-related ileus (MRI) is a significant gastrointestinal complication in extremely low birthweight infants (ELBWIs).
  • MRI can delay enteral nutrition, potentially impacting infant growth and neurodevelopmental trajectories.
  • Understanding the incidence, associated factors, and outcomes of MRI is crucial for optimizing care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence of MRI in ELBWIs.
  • To identify clinical factors associated with MRI development.
  • To investigate the short- and long-term impacts of MRI on growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of medical records for ELBWIs admitted between January 2015 and August 2021.
  • Comparison of clinical features between infants with and without MRI.
  • Assessment of growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes at corrected ages up to 36 months.

Main Results:

  • MRI was observed in 24% of 108 ELBWIs, with 87% successfully treated via Gastrografin enema.
  • Infants from twin pregnancies had a higher incidence of MRI.
  • MRI was associated with a significant delay in establishing enteral nutrition (21.5 vs. 12 days).

Conclusions:

  • Despite delaying enteral nutrition, MRI did not show significant adverse effects on growth parameters at corrected ages up to 36 months.
  • No statistically significant differences in neurodevelopmental impairment rates were observed at 3 years of age.
  • Early identification and management of MRI are important, but long-term neurodevelopmental and growth outcomes appear unaffected in ELBWIs.
Abstract

Keywords:
Gastrografin enemaenteral nutritionextremely low birthweight infantmeconium‐related ileusoutcome

More Related Videos

A Rat Model of Mild Intrauterine Hypoperfusion with Microcoil Stenosis06:19

A Rat Model of Mild Intrauterine Hypoperfusion with Microcoil Stenosis

Published on: January 7, 2018

11.0K
A Murine Model of Fetal Exposure to Maternal Inflammation to Study the Effects of Acute Chorioamnionitis on Newborn Intestinal Development08:50

A Murine Model of Fetal Exposure to Maternal Inflammation to Study the Effects of Acute Chorioamnionitis on Newborn Intestinal Development

Published on: June 24, 2020

4.4K

Related Concept Videos

Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis01:27

Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis

Introduction
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...
1.4K
Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS01:21

Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS

Pharmacological therapies for IBS-C are designed to alleviate abdominal discomfort and enhance bowel function. In patients with IBS-C, fiber supplements may help soften stools and decrease straining, but may also lead to increased gas production and bloating. Osmotic laxatives like milk of magnesia are frequently used to soften stools and increase stool frequency in IBS-C patients. In addition, two drugs approved for use in severe IBS-C adult cases are linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone...
1.2K
Lower GI Series: Barium Enema01:23

Lower GI Series: Barium Enema

A Barium Enema, or a lower GI series, is a specialized radiographic examination designed to visualize the lower gastrointestinal tract, specifically the colon and rectum. This procedure is instrumental in diagnosing various conditions such as colorectal cancer, polyps, diverticulosis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Procedure Details
The examination begins by inserting a lubricated rectal tube into the patient's rectum to administer a radiopaque barium solution. The barium flow is carefully...
2.4K
Appendicitis-I: Introduction01:22

Appendicitis-I: Introduction

The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
3.6K
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management01:21

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
843
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
1.8K