Intestinal malrotation in Trinidad.
Fifty-one children under the age of 10 years admitted to a general hospital in Trinidad had a confirmed diagnosis of malrotation of the intestines. This was the primary diagnosis in 20 cases. Analysis of the records of these 20 revealed that one-half were less than 1 month of age at first presentation. Vomiting was a universal complaint, and nearly two-thirds were malnourished. Disturbed bowel habit, anorexia and abdominal pain were also reported. In 30% (six of 20) there were signs of dehydration; an equal number had features of intestinal obstruction. Radiological investigation provided the diagnosis in all but one child, who underwent surgical exploration with a provisional diagnosis of appendicitis. Although a volvulus was found in 35% of cases, no resections were necessary. A high rate of morbidity and a mortality rate of 15% highlight the problems involved in the surgical care of young infants.
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Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Mount Hope, Trinidad.
D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D000013:Congenital Abnormalities / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000209:etiology* / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery; D007422:Intestines / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014300:Trinidad and Tobago / Q000453:epidemiology; D014839:Vomiting / Q000209:etiology