Prenatal Sonography in Suspected Proximal Gastrointestinal Obstructions: Diagnostic Accuracy and Neonatal Outcomes

Abigail J. Engwall-Gill, Alice L. Zhou, Annalise B. Penikis, Shelby R. Sferra, Angie C. Jelin, Karin J. Blakemore, Shaun M. Kunisaki

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess diagnostic accuracy and neonatal outcomes in fetuses with a suspected proximal gastrointestinal obstruction (GIO). Methods: After IRB approval, a retrospective chart review was conducted on prenatally suspected and/or postnatally confirmed cases of proximal GIO at a tertiary care facility (2012–2022). Maternal-fetal records were queried for presence of a double bubble ± polyhydramnios, and neonatal outcomes were assessed to calculate the diagnostic accuracy of fetal sonography. Results: Among 56 confirmed cases, the median birthweight and gestational age at birth were 2550 g [interquartile range (IQR) 2028–3012] and 37 weeks (IQR 34–38), respectively. There was one (2%) false-positive and three (6%) false-negatives by ultrasound. Double bubble had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for proximal GIO of 85%, 98%, 98%, and 83%, respectively. Pathologies included 49 (88%) with duodenal obstruction/annular pancreas, three (5%) with malrotation, and three (5%) with jejunal atresia. The median postoperative length of stay was 27 days (IQR 19–42). Cardiac anomalies were associated with significantly higher complications (45% vs 17%, p = 0.030). Conclusions: In this contemporary series, fetal sonography has high diagnostic accuracy for detecting proximal gastrointestinal obstruction. These data are informative for pediatric surgeons in prenatal counseling and preoperative discussions with families. Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Study, Level III.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1090-1094
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of pediatric surgery
Volume58
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2023

Keywords

  • Double bubble
  • Polyhydramnios
  • Proximal gastrointestinal obstruction

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health

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