Antenatal sonographic features of ileal atresia

J Obstet Gynaecol Res. 2012 Jan;38(1):215-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1447-0756.2011.01686.x. Epub 2011 Oct 14.

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this study was to determine the antenatal sonographic features of ileal atresia.

Material and methods: We identified neonates with surgically-confirmed ileal atresia who had antenatal sonography performed in our institution between 1 January 1999 and 30 June 2009. The antenatal sonography images and reports were reviewed.

Results: Sixteen neonates had surgically-confirmed ileal atresia in our institution in 11 years. Seven fetuses (43.7%) did not have any intestinal abnormalities detected antenatally on ultrasonography. Nine fetuses (56.3%) had various sonographic features of ileal atresia, including multiple dilated bowel loops, ascites, cysts, and polyhydramnios with or without associated anomalies. Six of nine fetuses had multiple dilated bowel loops and two fetuses had ascites. One fetus had a large, cystic, mixed, echogenic dilatation of bowel. Polyhydramnios was present in three fetuses. Heart anomalies, kidney anomalies, or hydrops were present in four fetuses. Eight of 16 fetuses (50%) had other intestinal problems, including intussusceptions in one fetus, small bowel malrotation, meconium pseudocyst volvulus, meconium peritonitis, and a congenital band.

Conclusion: The prenatal sonographic features of ileal atresia are not simple. Various sonographic findings are shown and ileal atresia was detected in about 60% of cases.

MeSH terms

  • Ascites / diagnostic imaging
  • Female
  • Fetal Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Ileum / abnormalities*
  • Ileum / diagnostic imaging
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Intestinal Atresia / diagnostic imaging*
  • Male
  • Meconium / diagnostic imaging
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Diagnosis
  • Ultrasonography