Common conditions that may require neonatal surgery include a range of congenital anomalies and medical conditions that affect newborns. Some of these conditions include:
- Congenital Heart Defects: Some infants are born with structural abnormalities in the heart that may require surgical correction, such as ventricular septal defects (VSD), atrial septal defects (ASD), or complex heart conditions.
- Abdominal Wall Defects:
- Gastroschisis: This is a condition where the baby is born with the intestines outside the abdominal wall.
- Omphalocele: In omphalocele, some of the baby’s abdominal organs protrude through the navel.
- Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH): CDH is a condition where there is a hole in the diaphragm, allowing abdominal organs to move into the chest cavity. Surgery is often required to repair the diaphragm.
- Intestinal Atresia: Intestinal atresia is a condition where there is a blockage in the intestines, often requiring surgical intervention to remove the affected portion and rejoin healthy segments.
- Esophageal Atresia: This is a condition where the esophagus does not develop as a continuous tube, necessitating surgical repair to connect the two ends.
- Anorectal Malformations: Infants with anorectal malformations may have congenital issues related to the anus and rectum that require surgical correction.
- Urinary Tract Abnormalities: Conditions such as posterior urethral valves or vesicoureteral reflux may require surgical intervention to correct structural abnormalities in the urinary system.
- Spina Bifida: In some cases of spina bifida, surgical closure of the spinal defect is needed shortly after birth to protect the spinal cord.
- Cleft Lip and Palate: While not typically performed in the neonatal period, surgeries to repair cleft lip and palate are common procedures in infants.
- Neonatal Tumors: Some infants may be born with tumors that require surgical removal or treatment.
- Chronic Lung Disease: In some cases, premature infants with underdeveloped lungs may require surgery or procedures to improve lung function.
The specific conditions that may require neonatal surgery can vary widely, and the decision for surgery is based on the individual needs of the newborn. Paediatric surgeons and neonatal specialists work together to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each case.
Consult, Dr. Bhavesh Doshi is a General, Laparoscopic, and Pediatric surgeon in Mumbai, and he experienced a doctor in neonatal surgery. practising at Dhanvantari Hospital.
What are common conditions that may require neonatal surgery?