Colonic Atresia

Colonic atresia is a condition that occurs during embryonic development in which the normal tubular shape of the colon in the foetus is unexpectedly closed. This congenital abnormality may be caused by incomplete development of the colon or the loss of blood flow during its development. Colonic atresia is rare and may occur with the more common small bowel atresia.

Infants with colonic atresia have no bowel movements, increasing abdominal distention, and vomiting. X rays will show a dilated colon above the obstruction, which can then be located using a barium enema.

Surgery is necessary to open or remove the closed area and re-connect the normal sections of the colon.

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