Duodenal Atresia

What is duodenal atresia?

Duodenal atresia is a blockage of the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine that connects to the stomach. This congenital condition occurs when the duodenum doesn’t develop properly in a fetus. 

Duodenal atresia means the small intestine is completely blocked. Duodenal stenosis is a similar condition that involves partial blockage or narrowing of the duodenum. 

How do I know if my baby has duodenal atresia?

Your doctor may suspect duodenal atresia if they see that your baby has an enlarged stomach and duodenum during a routine ultrasound. Because of the blockage, any fluid the baby swallows accumulates there. Sometimes, signs and symptoms of duodenal atresia don’t appear until after birth. Infants with duodenal atresia vomit often.

California Pediatric Surgical Group carefully reviews the ultrasound image at your prenatal consultation and discusses all diagnosis and treatment options. They closely monitor your pregnancy and outline every step of what to expect from the time you give birth to after you take your baby home.

What does treatment for duodenal atresia entail?

Surgery is the only treatment for duodenal atresia. After delivery, your California Pediatric Surgical Group surgeon takes your baby to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to evaluate their condition. They may perform additional tests, such as an abdominal X-ray, to confirm the diagnosis. 

After your baby is stable from delivery, your physician surgically bypasses the blocked section of duodenum. The California Pediatric Surgical Group team uses minimally invasive techniques to treat duodenal atresia whenever possible. 

What happens after surgical treatment of duodenal atresia?

After surgery, it can take several days or weeks for your baby’s bowels to function normally. In the meantime, your baby gets all the nutrients they need intravenously. When bowel function returns, your California Pediatric Surgical Group surgeon advises you on how to proceed with feeding. 

What is the long-term outlook for babies with duodenal atresia?

With expert care from California Pediatric Surgical Group, the overall outcomes for most infants with duodenal atresia is excellent. Minor intestinal problems in the first few weeks are common, but most recover to lead normal, healthy lives. 

Call California Pediatric Surgical Group or book an appointment online today for advanced care of duodenal atresia.