Small Bowel Atresia

Also known as: intestinal atresia, IA, intestinal atresia and stenosis, intestinal obstructions.

What is small bowel atresia?

Small bowel atresia refers to a blocked or narrowed area in the intestines of a baby. It is a form of birth defect. Small bowel atresia occurs when the intestines aren’t formed properly. It’s similar to intestinal stenosis, which is a partial block of the intestines. Often, these two birth defects are grouped together as intestinal obstructions.

What causes small bowel atresia?

The reasons for small bowel atresia occurring can vary. In some cases, the baby’s intestines simply form incorrectly. Other times, a loss of blood flow to that area causes the birth defect.

What are the symptoms of small bowel atresia?

Babies with small bowel atresia are usually malnourished because they can’t absorb nutrients through the intestines. They also may have enlarged intestines since waste can’t pass through properly.