Multiple atresias in a low-birth-weight twin.

ABSTRACT

This report describes a case of 16 small bowel atresias in a twin who was born at 31 weeks' gestation, weighing 1,690 g. All atresias and intestinal segments of 5 cm or less in length were resected, resulting in nine primary anastomoses, preserving 75% (107 cm) of his initial small bowel length. The baby went home on full oral feedings after 10 weeks. Multiple anastomoses in the low-birth-weight neonate can be tolerated with the functional benefit of maximal bowel length. The time taken to tolerate feedings appears to be independent of the number of anastomoses. Vascular anastomoses associated with monochorionic twinning may place both fetuses at risk of intestinal atresia in the event of an ischemic insult, either concurrently or with the demise of one affecting the other. Prenatal ultrasound scan appears to be useful for monitoring the evolution of intestinal atresia. However, the risks of extreme prematurity preclude the delivery of the affected baby at the time of initial diagnosis, and as yet it is unknown whether early delivery will alter the number, type, or prognosis of multiple atresias.