Duodenal Atresia

What are the signs and symptoms of duodenal atresia?

Babies swallow amniotic fluid (the fluid that surrounds and protects the baby) while in the uterus. If they have a partial or full intestinal blockage, they won’t be able to swallow as much fluid. Instead, the amniotic fluid accumulates, leading to a condition called polyhydramnios. This is a risk factor for preterm labor.

In a newborn, symptoms of duodenal atresia include:

• Vomiting within a few hours after birth (especially after the first feeding)
• Low birth weight
• Swelling in the upper abdomen

What tests are used to diagnose duodenal atresia?

In most cases, duodenal atresia is diagnosed after the 24^th week of pregnancy. Your obstetrician (OB) or primary care doctor may recognize signs of the condition during a fetal ultrasound. If they suspect your baby has an intestinal blockage, they will suggest more specialized testing.

The Colorado Fetal Care Center provides moms-to-be with world-class care. Because our fetal care specialists are all experts in their fields, they can perform more detailed imaging tests, such as a fetal MRI and fetal echocardiogram. They will also recommend genetic testing (including amniocentesis) to screen for Down syndrome and other related conditions.

After your baby is born, additional testing can verify the diagnosis.

These tests may include:

• Abdominal X-rays: Babies with an intestinal blockage often have what’s called a “double bubble.” Extra air or fluid swells the stomach and upper part of the duodenum. Because it can’t pass through, it creates a double-bubble appearance we can see on an X-ray.
• Barium swallow: Your baby swallows a safe amount of barium, usually given through a tube that runs from the nose down to the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The barium (a chalky substance) shows up white on an X-ray so that we get a clear picture of what happens when your baby swallows.

What can I expect from duodenal atresia testing?

Screening tests, such as fetal ultrasound and fetal MRI, are painless, noninvasive procedures. You’ll learn the results and discuss them with your care team the same day.

If you have genetic testing, you can expect results in a week or two. A genetic counselor will go over the results with you and explain what the findings mean for you and your baby.

Babies who may have duodenal atresia should be delivered in a center with pediatric surgery facilities. Your doctors will determine what tests your baby needs after birth and when they need them. This workup usually begins with a simple X-ray, which is painless. Your physician can share results with you immediately.

How is duodenal atresia treated during pregnancy?

We can’t treat the condition before birth, but our prenatal care specialists will monitor your pregnancy closely. You may have more frequent ultrasounds or other imaging tests to assess your baby’s development.

You should meet with a pediatric surgeon before giving birth to discuss treatment options for your baby. The skilled team at the Colorado Fetal Care Center can explain your options and help you have a successful pregnancy and delivery.

How is duodenal atresia treated in newborns?

As soon as possible after birth, your baby will need a procedure called nasogastric decompression. We pass a thin, flexible tube through the nose, down the esophagus and into the stomach. This tube empties the intestines and prevents air and fluid from building up.

Your baby will not be able to breastfeed or bottle feed until the blockage is surgically repaired. They will get liquid nourishment through an IV.

We typically perform surgery to repair duodenal atresia in the first few days of life, based on your baby’s health. Your baby will recover after surgery in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Your baby will be able to go home as soon as they are able to eat on their own and begin gaining weight.

After recovering from reparative surgery, most babies will be able to eat and digest food without problems.

Why choose us for treatment of duodenal atresia?

As a parent, learning your baby may have duodenal atresia can be upsetting. We understand your concerns and are here to help. As one of the most experienced fetal care centers in the country, we know how to help you feel prepared for delivery. After your baby is born, we work seamlessly with pediatric subspecialists in our Level IV NICU to provide the best care.

The experts at the Colorado Fetal Care Center are at the forefront of treatment and care for this condition. We’ll help your family through this diagnosis to a successful delivery and a healthy baby.

Make an appointment

To make an appointment at The Colorado Fetal Care Center, please call us at 720-777-4463.

Will a diagnosis of duodenal atresia affect my delivery?

If you develop polyhydramnios during pregnancy, you’re at an increased risk of preterm delivery. Our expert team will help to monitor and manage your condition. Your baby will also need specialized medical care immediately after delivery. To ensure a safe delivery, you should have your baby in a major medical center that has skilled and experienced pediatric surgeons and a dedicated NICU.

Will duodenal atresia occur in future pregnancies?

In most cases, duodenal atresia is a sporadic condition, meaning it may occur in future pregnancies. If it’s part of a genetic syndrome, that risk increases. A consultation with a medical geneticist can help you understand the chances of the condition occurring again.