Causes of intestinal obstruction in newborns
Oct 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
Neonatal intestinal obstruction may be caused by congenital intestinal malformations, such as congenital intestinal adhesions or congenital intestinal stenosis, which prevent the normal passage of intestinal contents. It may also result from improper feeding leading to indigestion, constipation, and subsequent gastrointestinal motility disorders. Additionally, if a neonate has an intestinal tumor, progressive enlargement of the tumor may obstruct the intestine and cause intestinal obstruction.
Neonatal intestinal obstruction may be caused by congenital intestinal malformations, gastrointestinal motility disorders, or intestinal tumors.
1. Congenital Intestinal Malformations
If a newborn has congenital intestinal adhesions, congenital intestinal stenosis, or other intestinal malformations, the internal intestinal space is usually small and the intestinal lumen is narrow. In such cases, intestinal contents typically cannot pass through smoothly and are unable to be excreted from the body, leading to intestinal obstruction.
2. Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders
Newborns have relatively weak gastrointestinal function. Improper feeding can easily lead to indigestion, constipation, and similar conditions, resulting in poor gastrointestinal motility. Food residue continues to accumulate in the intestines and cannot be expelled effectively, causing gastrointestinal motility disorders that may lead to intestinal obstruction.
3. Intestinal Tumors
If a newborn has an untreated intestinal tumor, as the condition progresses, the tumor gradually increases in size, causing intestinal blockage. This prevents normal passage and excretion of intestinal contents, resulting in intestinal obstruction.
For neonatal intestinal obstruction, prompt medical evaluation is recommended. Once the underlying cause is identified,积极配合 (active cooperation) with the doctor's treatment plan is essential.
