Chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction in children, management options and problems

ABSTRACT

This study has presented 21 cases of chronic idiopathic pseudo intestinal obstruction that have been diagnosed and managed in the Pediatric Surgery Unit and the Pediatric Gastroenterology Specialized Clinic, Ain-Shams University in the years 1998 and 1999. The diagnosis was based on the clinical picture of repeated attacks of intestinal obstruction with no compromise of the lumen. Radiological features included dilated loops of bowel with air fluid levels. Histopathology demonstrated the presence of ganglion cells in the enteric plexuses. Conservative measures were the mainstay of treatment although its results were poor. Surgical interventions were used as a last resort with a variable success rate