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Pyloric stenosisDefinition Pyloric stenosis is a narrowing of the outlet from the stomach to the small intestine (called the pylorus). The condition primarily occurs in infants. Causes, incidence, and risk factors This condition is caused by a thickening of the muscles of the pylorus. This prevents the stomach from emptying into the small intestine. The cause of the thickening is unknown, although genetic factors may play a role. It occurs more commonly in boys than in girls and is rare in patients older than 6 months. Approximately 2 to 3 of every 1,000 infants has pyloric stenosis. Symptoms Symptoms generally appear several weeks after birth:
Signs and tests Physical examination may show signs of dehydration. The infant may have a distended abdomen. Palpation of the abdomen may reveal the abnormal pylorus, which feels like an olive-shaped mass.
Treatment Treatment for pyloric stenosis involves surgery to split the overdeveloped muscles of the pylorus is the treatment for this disorder. Rehydration with intravenous fluids usually takes place prior to surgery. Small, frequent feedings are usually well tolerated several hours after the surgery. Expectations (prognosis) Surgical repair usually provides complete relief of symptoms. Complications
Calling your health care provider Call your health care provider if symptoms suggestive of pyloric stenosis develop in your infant. Illustrations
Page Content: Congenital hypertrophic pyloric stenosis; Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis; Gastric outlet obstruction ; hypertrophic pyloric stenosis; infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis; gastric obstruction outlet |
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