Duodenal atresia repair

Duodenal atresia is a blockage between the intestines (duodenum) and the stomach. It's a type of birth defect. Sometimes the duodenum doesn't form as it should before birth. That can cause a blockage between the stomach and small intestine. The blockage is called atresia. When this happens, food can't move from the stomach into the intestines.

This blockage is more common in premature babies (babies born early). It's also more common in babies born with other birth defects.

Babies can have surgery to open the blockage. It's most often done in the first few days after birth.

Duodenal atresia repair is done soon after birth. The doctor will drain any liquids from your baby's stomach. This is done by putting a tube through the baby's mouth or nose and down to the stomach. An intravenous (I.V.) tube is started. It sends nutrients and fluids into your baby's vein. The tube to the stomach and the I.V. will stay in place before, during, and after surgery. They will be removed when the intestines are able to work normally. That may take days or weeks.

When your baby is ready for the repair, he or she will get medicine. It will make your baby sleep during the surgery.

In most cases, the repair is done as open surgery. The doctor makes a cut in the baby's belly. The doctor opens the blocked part of the duodenum. Or the doctor may create a bypass to go around the blocked area. He or she may use stitches, staples, tape, or glue to close the cut.

In some cases, the doctor does the surgery by putting a laparoscope and special tools through small cuts in the baby's belly.