Question
What are the symptoms of pyloric stenosis in newborns?
Answer
Congenital hypertrophic pyloric stenosis may present with symptoms such as feeding difficulties soon after birth, frequent vomiting, failure to gain or weight loss, and abdominal distension. These symptoms typically appear within the first week after birth and may be misdiagnosed as other gastrointestinal issues. In some cases, the child may experience dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and malnutrition. Diagnosis is usually made through imaging tests such as abdominal X-rays or upper gastrointestinal contrast studies to confirm. The treatment involves surgical removal of the hypertrophied part of the pylorus and pyloroplasty. Postoperative recovery is generally good, with most children able to eat normally within a few days after surgery. However, complications such as gastric hemorrhage, gastric perforation, and malnutrition may occur after surgery. Therefore, close observation of the child’s physical condition and necessary nutritional support and monitoring should be carried out postoperatively.