A Comprehensive Review of Intestinal Atresias

Authors

• Pete F. Peterson Resident, Department of Surgery, University of South Florida. Tampa, Florida, United States

Abstract

Introduction: Intestinal atresia is an uncommon but challenging disease that require a high level of suspicion for timely diagnosis and expeditious treatment. Its incidence ranges anywhere from 3.4 per 10,000 to 1 per 66,000 live births. Herein we present a comprehensive review of the various presentations of Intestinal Atresia and provide an algorithm for its evaluation.

Methods: A review of modern English Language in Index databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, EMBASE, MEDLINE, etc) in the English language was preformed. The etiology, pathophysiology, and management of the intestinal atresia at different levels of the intestinal tract was studied.

Results: Atresia is often diagnosed soon after birth and requires a multidisciplinary approach for optimal outcomes. Duodenal atresia is associated with many congenital anomalies and requires a multisystem workup once diagnosed. Jejuno-ilealatresia is the most common intestinal atresia and has fewer associated congenital defects than duodenal atresia. Colonic atresia is the rarest of the intestinal atresias but often has the best outcome as long as it is promptly diagnosed and treatment is not delayed.