Intestinal Failure in a Neonate: A Surgical Emergency and Medical Catastrophe

Abstract

In this case report, we present a female neonate referred to us, born to a primigravida mother at 39 weeks, who cried after birth, did not require any resuscitation, had a birth weight of 2.9 kg and developed abdominal distension and bilious vomiting on Day 1 of life. Ultrasound abdomen and X-ray imaging were suggestive of midgut volvulus with malrotation. The emergency explorative laparotomy revealed the small bowel to be gangrenous in extensive areas, and 10 cm of the small intestine was successfully preserved. The baby was admitted to the NICU and required three months of total parenteral nutrition. In between, the baby was managed successfully for sepsis, septic shock, diarrhea, and dehydration, Later, she was discharged, and is currently being followed up. At the first follow-up, the baby was noted to be gaining weight and has developed no complications to date.