WOFAPS 2025 8th World Congress of Pediatric Surgery

AM Shahinoor

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University

Background: Neonatal intestinal obstruction is the most common surgical emergency during the neonatal period and causes significant challenges, particularly in developing countries. Despite advancements in neonatal care, delayed diagnosis and limited access to specialized surgical facilities have contributed to high morbidity and mortality rates. This study aimed to evaluate the etiological spectrum and surgical outcomes of neonates with intestinal obstruction. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at Department of Pediatric Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh from June 2017 to June 2021. Total 31 neonates who underwent surgery for intestinal obstruction between the study periods are included in this study following the selection criteria. Data were collected from medical records and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: Among the 31 neonates, 16 (51.6%) were female, and 15 (48.4%) were male. The age of presentation ranged from 2 to 20 days, with a mean of 6.4 ± 2.9 days. Most cases (77.4%) presented within the first week of life and 74.2% were preterm. Duodenal atresia (54.8%) and jejunal atresia (19.4%) were the leading causes, followed by meconium ileus (12.9%), anorectal malformations (6.5%), strangulated inguinal hernias (3.2%), and congenital bands/adhesions (3.2%). The postoperative mortality rate was 25.8%, primarily because of sepsis. Conclusion: Early diagnosis, timely intervention and improved access to neonatal surgical care are crucial for reducing mortality in neonates with intestinal obstructions. Strengthening pediatric surgical services in resourcelimited settings is essential for improving outcomes.