Publication: Can Neonatal Pneumoperitoneum be Managed by Conservative Management Alone?
Date
2012
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Nepal Paediatric Society (JNPS)
Abstract
Abstract:
Common causes of pneumoperitoneum in neonates includes necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), specific infections, gastro intestinal obstruction, iatrogenic causes, idiopathic focal intestinal perforation, perforation secondary to intra thoracic pathology, mechanical ventilation etc. Primary peritoneal drainage and exploratory laparotomy remain the definitive management of pneumoperitoneum in neonates. Here we report a case of suspected spontaneous idiopathic intestinal perforation managed conservatively with monitoring of vital signs. The neonate had an uneventful recovery. This case highlights the need to identify infants with benign or non surgical causes of pneumoperitoneum thus avoiding unnecessary laparotomies and referrals in these vulnerable neonates.
Description
Sananda Pati
Graduate Trainee, Junior Resident, Department of Paediatrics, Burdwan Medical College and Hospital, Burdwan
Bhushan Chaki
Post Graduate Trainee, Department of Paediatrics, Burdwan Medical College and Hospital, Burdwan
Atanu Roy
Assistant Professor, Department of Paediatrics, Burdwan Medical College and Hospital, Burdwan
Sangita De
Post Graduate Trainee, Department of Paediatrics, Burdwan Medical College and Hospital, Burdwan
Keywords
Pneumoperitoneum, Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), Spontaneous intestinal perforation