Which one of the following is most suggestive of neonatal small bowel obstruction -
Ans. is 'c' i.e., Bilious vomiting "Bilious vomiting is the most common symptom". -- Internet Intestinal obstruction in newborn Presentation depends on the site of obstruction. 1. Proximal obstruction o A history ofpolyhydramnios is common. o The higher the obstruction in the intestine the earlier the infant will develop vomiting which may be bile stained. o Abdominal distension will be less prominent. o Obstipation is less common. 2. Distal obstruction o Abdominal distension and obstipation are more common. o Vomiting is less common. Note ? In neonates proximal intestinal obstruction are much more common than distal. So, bilious vomiting is the most common presentation of neonatal intestinal obstruction.
Generalized abdominal distension
Failure to pass meconeum in the first 24 hours
Bilious vomiting
Refusal of feeds