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Review
. 2018 Mar;31(2):121-126.
doi: 10.1055/s-0037-1609027. Epub 2018 Feb 25.

Meconium Ileus

John H T Waldhausen  1 , Morgan Richards  1
Affiliations
Review

Meconium Ileus

John H T Waldhausen et al. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2018 Mar.

Abstract

Cystic fibrosis is one of the most common inheritable traits in Caucasians. Meconium ileus and its potential complications are the most likely reasons that these patients will need surgical care. Surgical intervention is usually needed in the neonatal period but may also be required later in life. This article discusses the various ways cystic fibrosis can affect the gastrointestinal tract. Both the operative and nonoperative management of complicated and uncomplicated meconium ileus are discussed in the neonatal period as well as long-term issues, such as distal intestinal obstructive syndrome, fibrosing colonopathy, and rectal prolapse, all of which may be seen in older children and adults.

Keywords: cystic fibrosis; cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator; distal intestinal obstruction syndrome; epithelial sodium channels; fibrosing colonopathy; meconium ileus; newborn intestinal obstruction; rectal prolapse.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Meconium ileus. Newborn with dilated loops of small bowel and a “doughy” abdomen.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Lack of air–fluid levels.
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Abdominal X-ray (AXR) ground glass.
Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Types of ostomies for meconium ileus.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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