Condition

Duodenal Atresia or Stenosis in Infants

What You Need to Know

The duodenum is the first portion of the small intestine that follows the stomach. Duodenal atresia or stenosis occurs when the intestine does not develop normally and leads to a blockage in the continuity of the intestine.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How common is duodenal atresia or stenosis in infants?

How is duodenal atresia or stenosis diagnosed in infants?

What is the treatment for duodenal atresia or stenosis in infants?

Duodenal atresia or stenosis is treated surgically. A new connection between the upper duodenum and distal duodenum must be created to bypass the blockage. The operation may be performed either through an upper abdominal transverse incision, by minimally invasive surgery, or laparoscopy using small incisions which become barely visible with age. Other advantages of minimally invasive procedures in infants include less pain, less scarring, shorter hospital stays and fewer problems with scar tissue leading to intestinal blockages in the future compared to open abdominal surgery.

Children's National Hospital offers both treatment options and assess with families to determine the best care plan for each individual patient.

Patient Stories

Jul 13, 2018
Thomas's Story
Thomas's internal and external challenges, all considered individually very rare, added up to an extremely rare combination known as VACTERL association.

Departments that Treat Duodenal Atresia or Stenosis in Infants

Neonatology

Whether your infant has arrived prematurely or has a critical illness, the top-ranked neonatology team at Children's National Hospital assists in coordinating every service you and your baby need, including consultations, assessments, emergency treatments and continuing care.

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