Spectrum and outcome analysis of acute intestinal obstruction in neonates and children

Abstract

We analyzed the neonates and children presenting with acute intestinal obstruction to our department and did an outcome analysis to identify the factors affecting the morbidity and mortality. Over a period of 3 years, 100 cases of acute intestinal obstructions accounted for 30% of the abdominal emergencies in our setup. Intussusceptions were the commonest followed by intestinal atresia. Transfer to the tertiary care centre was delayed by more than 3 days after the diagnosis in 60% of the hospital and 80% of the home delivered neonates. The overall mortality rate was 5% (5 out of 100); however, it was significantly higher in neonates (10%, 3 out of 30). Inadequate perinatal care, prematurity, associated congenital anomalies and delayed referrals were the significant contributing factors for mortality. First contact community physician and their continuing medical education especially regarding the neonatal intestinal obstruction will have a significant role to play.