ABSTRACT
Gastrointestinal tract obstructions are the most common surgical emergencies in neonatal period. The aetiology of these disorders is diverse and mostly the consequences prenatal developmental malformations. The management and survival are still a challenge, especially in developing countries like India.METHODSA prospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary care paediatric institute from October 2016 to September 2019. Newborns in the age group of one to 28 days, who were operated in the hospital for gastrointestinal tract obstruction were analysed. Institutional Ethics Committee approval was taken. Data with regard to demographic patterns, clinical profile, management approach and outcome, were collected and analysed.RESULTSOut of 531 newborns operated for gastrointestinal obstruction, 80% cases presented within first week of life. Male neonates were more commonly affected than females (M: F=2.2:1) and 58% cases were having low birth weight. Anorectal malformation was the commonest cause of obstruction (40.7% cases) followed by intestinal atresia (18% cases). Hirschsprung’s disease, malrotation, meconium ileus and hypertrophic pyloric stenosis were among the important aetiologies. The overall mortality in this study was 13% and septicaemia was the leading cause.CONCLUSIONSAetiology of gastrointestinal obstruction in newborn is diverse ranging from oesophageal atresia to anorectal malformations. Low birth weight and other co-morbidities are associated in many cases. The overall outcome is in improving trend due to gradual understanding about the pathology and advancement of neonatal care. Early diagnosis, surgical intervention and availability of well-equipped neonatal intensive care unit facility are essential for better survival.