Necrosis in premature babies (Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)
Necrotizing enterocolitis is a serious disease that occurs when the intestinal tissue become damaged and begins to die. It most often affects premature infants (Camerini, 2008). Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an infection that creates when the tissue in the internal covering of the small or large intestine gets to be harmed and starts to die. This causes the digestive system to wind up aggravated. The condition ordinarily influences just the inward coating of the digestive tract, however the whole thickness of the digestive system may get to be affected in the end. In extreme cases of NEC, a gap may frame in the mass of the digestive tract. If this happens, the microscopic organisms regularly found inside the digestive tract can spill into the abdomen and cause far widespread disease, thus resulting in an emergency.
Signs and symptoms of necrosis in premature babies
In premature babies, the onset of NEC normally occurs during initial weeks after birth, and with the time of onset conversely identified with gestational age during childbirth. Initial symptoms may be subtle and can include 1 or more of the following:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
iii. Delayed gastric emptying
- Abdominal distention, abdominal tenderness, or both
- Ileus/decreased bowel sounds
- Abdominal wall erythema (advanced stages)
vii. Hematochezia
Systemic signs are nonspecific and can incorporate any mix of the following:
- Apnea
- Lethargy
iii. Decreased peripheral perfusion
- Shock (in advanced stages)
- Cardiovascular collapse
Diagnosis
Go get radiographic studies if any concern about NEC is present. Laboratory studies should be done, especially if the findings about abdominal study are disturbing or the baby is showing any systemic sign.
Treatment for premature babies
The treatment for NEC may include antibiotics, intravenous (IV) fluids, or surgery. Once they get treatment, most children completely recover without complications.
Surgery for premature babies with necrosis
The main indication for full-blown NEC is perforated or necrotic intestine, which is most compellingly predicted by pneumoperitoneum. Other indications include the following:
- Erythema in the abdominal wall
- Gas in the portal vein
iii. Positive paracentesis
- Clinical deterioration.
As soon as these are noticed too, surgery should be scheduled in order to ensure recovery if infant.