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Pneumoperitoneum in the neonate in Harare
1Department of Surgery, Harare Central Hospital, Harare University of Zimbabwe School of Medicine, Avondale.
The Central African Journal of Medicine
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Neonatal pneumoperitoneum often results from gastrointestinal perforations requiring surgical intervention. Outcomes varied, with significant mortality and morbidity in this Harare study of infants undergoing operations for perforated bowels.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Neonatal Care
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
Background:
- Pneumoperitoneum in neonates indicates a serious intra-abdominal condition, often due to gastrointestinal perforation.
- Prompt surgical evaluation and management are critical for improving outcomes in affected infants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the etiologies, surgical management, and outcomes of neonates presenting with pneumoperitoneum.
- To identify challenges and factors influencing survival in surgical cases of neonatal pneumoperitoneum.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of thirteen neonates undergoing surgery for pneumoperitoneum between January 1990 and May 1992.
- Surgical interventions included primary closure, resection and anastomosis, or exteriorization based on perforation site.
Main Results:
- Multiple etiologies for gastrointestinal perforation were identified across the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.
- Two cases of unsuspected Hirschsprung's disease were diagnosed.
- Postoperative mortality was 46% (6/13), with an additional infant death following subsequent procedures.
Conclusions:
- Neonatal pneumoperitoneum presents a high-risk surgical challenge with significant mortality.
- Timely surgical intervention is crucial, but outcomes remain guarded, necessitating further research into preventative and therapeutic strategies.