Colonic atresia in a newborn

ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT Introduction: Colonic atresia is the least common type of intestinal atresia; however, it must be suspected in patients with partial or complete intestinal obstruction, failure to pass meconium, vomit and abdominal distension. Good prognosis has been described in patients with timely treatment. Case report This paper reports the case of a newborn patient presenting with vomit, abdominal distension, failure to pass meconium and a rapid progressive clinical deterioration. A colonic atresia was found during exploratory laparotomy, which required a temporary colostomy due to the discrepancy of the proximal and distal calibers. Subsequently, colonic anastomosis was performed using a protective colostomy that was finally closed. This patient had a good post-operative recovery. Conclusion: Colonic atresia must be considered as an important cause of distal intestinal obstruction in pediatric patients and, therefore, it should always be suspected. Ruling out other associated abnormalities is also recommended, as well as performing a rectal biopsy for Hirschsprung's disease to avoid complications.