Treatment:

A tube is placed to decompress the stomach. Dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities are corrected by providing fluids through an intravenous tube. An evaluation for other congenital anomalies should be performed.

Surgery to correct the duodenal blockage is necessary, but is not an emergency. The surgical approach will depend on the nature of the abnormality. Associated problems (such as those related to Down syndrome) must be treated as appropriate.

Expectations (prognosis):

Recovery from the duodenal atresia is expected after treatment. Untreated, the condition is deadly.

Complications:

• Other birth defects
• Dehydration

After surgery, there may be late complications such as:

• Swelling of the first part of the small bowel (megaduodenum)
• Problems with movement through the intestines
• Gastroesophageal reflux

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if your newborn is feeding poorly or not at all, vomiting (not simply spitting up), not urinating or stooling, or if the vomit is green.