Summary about Disease
Volvulus neonatorum is a life-threatening condition in newborns where the intestine twists on itself, causing bowel obstruction and potential loss of blood supply to the affected bowel. This is typically due to malrotation, a congenital abnormality where the intestines don't rotate properly during fetal development. It's a surgical emergency.
Symptoms
Bilious vomiting (vomit that is green or yellow-green).
Abdominal distension (swelling of the abdomen).
Blood in the stool (may appear as bright red or dark, tarry stools).
Irritability.
Lethargy.
Failure to pass meconium (first stool).
Causes
The primary cause of volvulus neonatorum is intestinal malrotation. During normal fetal development, the intestines rotate into a specific position within the abdomen. In malrotation, this rotation is incomplete or abnormal, leading to a narrow base (mesentery) that supports the intestines, making them prone to twisting.
Medicine Used
There isn't specific medication to "treat" volvulus itself. The primary treatment is surgical. However, medications may be used for supportive care:
Intravenous fluids (IV): To correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Antibiotics: To prevent or treat infection if bowel ischemia or perforation is suspected.
Pain medication: To manage discomfort.
Is Communicable
Volvulus neonatorum is not a communicable disease. It is a congenital condition related to intestinal development.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions that can be taken to prevent volvulus neonatorum, as it is a congenital condition.
How long does an outbreak last?
Volvulus neonatorum is not an outbreak-related illness. It's an acute condition.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Examination: Assessment of the infant's symptoms and abdominal distension.
X-ray: Abdominal X-rays can show signs of intestinal obstruction.
Upper GI series: A contrast study where barium is given orally or through a nasogastric tube, and X-rays are taken to visualize the path of the barium through the upper digestive tract. This is the gold standard for diagnosing malrotation and volvulus.
Ultrasound: Can sometimes be helpful in initial assessment.
Timeline of Symptoms
Symptoms typically appear shortly after birth, often within the first few days or weeks. The timeline can vary:
First few days: Bilious vomiting is often the initial sign.
Within hours to days: Abdominal distension develops.
As the condition progresses: Blood in the stool, lethargy, and signs of shock can occur.
Important Considerations
Volvulus neonatorum is a surgical emergency requiring prompt diagnosis and intervention.
Early recognition of symptoms by parents and healthcare providers is crucial.
Delay in diagnosis and treatment can lead to bowel ischemia, necrosis, and potentially death.
Following successful surgery, long-term monitoring is important to manage potential complications like short bowel syndrome.