Overview
Gastric atresia is a congenital anomaly characterized by the complete obstruction of the gastric lumen. It is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction in neonates.Diagnosis
Diagnosis is typically suspected based on antenatal ultrasound findings of polyhydramnios and a distended stomach with no visible fluid in the duodenum 1.
Postnatal diagnosis is confirmed by abdominal radiography or ultrasound demonstrating a dilated stomach and absence of duodenal gas 1.Management
Surgical intervention is the primary treatment for gastric atresia 1.
The surgical approach involves relieving the obstruction, often through a gastroduodenostomy or gastric resection and reconstruction, depending on the specific anatomy 1.Special Populations
Gastric atresia is a condition seen in the pediatric population 1.Key Recommendations
Surgical intervention is the definitive management for gastric atresia 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
Antenatal ultrasound findings of polyhydramnios and a distended stomach with no duodenal fluid should raise suspicion for gastric atresia 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
Postnatal confirmation of gastric atresia is achieved through imaging demonstrating a dilated stomach and absent duodenal gas 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)References
1 Fahy AS, Klima DA, Gillam MM, Aprahamian CJ, Kim SS, Kokoska ER et al.. Locum Tenens and Pediatric Surgery: A Position Statement and Practice Guidelines From the American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA). Journal of pediatric surgery 2024. link