Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a condition where the intestines become infected and can begin to die.
The disease usually affects premature babies, although term babies may also get NEC.
Necrotizing enterocolitis is a serious condition that may require surgery and has a high morbidity and mortality rate.
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Overview
The inner lining of the intestines contains millions of bacteria.
Usually, these bacteria (called the normal flora) are harmless and are part of the digestive process.
In NEC, though, the bacteria begin to attack the intestinal wall.
If the disease is not treated promptly, the intestinal wall will weaken and may die.
Bowel perforation is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgery and has a high mortality rate.
This causes the babys belly to look bloated or distended.
After feedings, food will be left in the babys stomach as gastric residuals.
The belly will become painful and discolored, and the baby may begin vomiting bile or having bile-tinged residuals.
Eventually, the bowel will rupture, causing widespread infection and respiratory distress.
The baby will receive frequent X-rays to watch the diseases progress.
If medical treatment ain’t running or if the bowel perforates, surgery is required.
A surgeon will remove any dead sections of bowel and other infected material.
The bowel will either be reattached or will be diverted to the abdomen through a stoma.
Medical treatments will continue until the disease is resolved.
NEC also increases the risk of developmental delays.
Infants who have had surgery for NEC also show long-term effects from the disease.
Prevention
Preventing premature birth is the best way to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis.
If preterm birth does occur, then feeding only breast milk can significantly lower the risk of NEC.
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