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How does duodenal atresia present?

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Final answer:

Duodenal atresia typically presents with bilious vomiting and failure to pass meconium in newborns, and it is diagnosed via the double bubble sign on imaging. Surgical correction is necessary to allow proper digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Step-by-step explanation:

Duodenal atresia presents as a congenital obstruction of the duodenum, leading to symptoms shortly after birth. It commonly manifests through a condition known as the double bubble sign on imaging, which represents a dilated stomach and proximal duodenum with air-fluid levels. In infants, the clinical presentation includes bilious vomiting, failure to pass meconium, and sometimes associated congenital anomalies such as Down syndrome.

Prompt recognition of duodenal atresia is critical for the health of the newborn. As the atresia obstructs the passage of stomach contents, infants cannot properly digest and absorb nutrients, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Surgical intervention to correct the atresia is the mainstay treatment, which involves creating a bypass around the obstructed segment of the duodenum through a procedure known as duodeno-duodenostomy or duodenojejunostomy.

Duodenal atresia is a congenital condition where there is a complete or partial blockage in the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine. It presents with symptoms such as bile-stained vomiting, abdominal distension, and failure to pass meconium (the first stool). The condition is typically diagnosed shortly after birth through imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or X-ray. Surgical intervention is required to correct the blockage and restore normal function.

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