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Definition Return to top
Duodenal atresia is a condition in which the duodenum (the first part of the small bowel) has not developed properly. It is not open and cannot allow the passage of stomach contents.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
The cause of duodenal atresia is unknown, but it is thought to result from problems during the embryologic stage in which the duodenum normally changes from solid to tube-like (recanalization).
Duodenal atresia is present in more than 1 in 10,000 live births. Approximately 20-30% of infants with duodenal atresia have Downs syndrome. Duodenal atresia is often associated with other congenital abnormalities.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
Treatment Return to top
A tube is placed to decompress the stomach. Dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities are corrected by providing fluids through an intravenous tube. An evaluation for other congenital anomalies should be performed.
Surgery to correct the duodenal blockage is necessary, but is not an emergency. The surgical approach will depend on the nature of the abnormality. Associated problems (such as Downs syndrome) must be treated as appropriate.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Recovery from the duodenal atresia is expected after treatment. Untreated, the condition is fatal.Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call your health care provider if your newborn is feeding poorly or not at all, vomiting (not spitting), not urinating or stooling, or if the vomitus is green.Prevention Return to top
There is no known prevention.
Update Date: 11/4/2003 Updated by: Grace Jeon, M.D., M.P.H., General Surgeon, Pasadena, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |