Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the most common acute disorders, typically affecting premature infants with low birth weight. This condition is characterized by an inflammatory process in the intestines, which can sometimes progress to necrosis. The survival rate for infants with NEC has improved significantly due to advancements in medical technology and treatment options.

Symptoms of Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Symptoms of necrotizing enterocolitis include:

Abdominal distension

Food intolerance

Vomiting

Low body temperature

Respiratory cessation

Slow pulse

Presence of blood in the stool

Causes and Risk Factors of Necrotizing Enterocolitis

The exact cause of necrotizing enterocolitis is not fully understood; however, it may be attributed to the following factors:

Impaired blood flow to the intestines

Bacterial penetration through the intestinal wall

Oral feeding of premature infants

Complications of Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Complications of necrotizing enterocolitis may include:

Cell death in the intestinal wall

Intestinal perforations

Leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity

Life-threatening situations for the infant

Diagnosis of Necrotizing Enterocolitis

The condition is diagnosed by performing an abdominal X-ray, which may show the following signs:

Intestinal dilation

Presence of air bubbles indicating intestinal perforation

Treatment of Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Treatment of necrotizing enterocolitis after diagnosis may involve the following:

Conservative Treatment:

Cessation of feeding

Administration of intravenous fluids

Administration of specific antibiotics

Frequent physical examinations of the infant

Serial abdominal imaging

Surgical Treatment: Surgery is required in cases of intestinal perforation and is performed under general anesthesia. The procedure includes:

Abdominal inspection

Resection of necrotic bowel tissue

Abdominal cavity lavage and temporary colostomy creation

Administration of antibiotics to treat the infection

Additional surgery to close the stoma either later or during the same operation

Prevention of Necrotizing Enterocolitis

There are no clear preventive measures for necrotizing enterocolitis, as its exact causes remain unclear.