Necrotizing Enterocolitis

Abstract

NECROTIZING enterocolitis is the most common acquired gastrointestinal emergency in the neonatal-intensive-care unit.^{1 , 2} Its initial clinical manifestations may be indistinguishable from those of sepsis neonatorum. Necrotizing enterocolitis is suspected when gastrointestinal signs and symptoms predominate. These intestinal disturbances include abdominal distention and tenderness, retention of feedings with ileus, hematochezia, peritonitis, and bowel perforation. Pneumatosis intestinalis (intramural gas) and intrahepatic venous gas are the roentgenologic hallmarks required to confirm the diagnosis.In the United States, between 2000 and 4000 new-born infants per year have necrotizing enterocolitis.^{3 , 4} Although the disorder was recognized as early as the 19th century, many investigators have suggested . . .