Short Gut Syndrome in Preemies

Short Bowel Syndrome, sometimes called "Short Gut Syndrome," is particularly dangerous when it affects premature babies although it also affects adults, such as those with Crohn's Disease. Short Bowel Syndrome is a disorder that prevents babies from absorbing enough nutrients through their intestines. In premature babies, it is generally a secondary result of a gastrointestinal disease called necrotizing enterocolitis. Necrotizing enterocolitis is a condition caused by blood restriction to the intestines. Necrotizing enterocolitis and the resultant Short Bowel Syndrome affects one to five percent of all premature newborns.

Cause

• Necrotizing enterocolitis, which means means "death of the small and large colons," occurs when the blood supply to the baby's intestines is restricted while he is in the womb. A restricted blood supply will cause the intestinal lining to die. Why blood is specifically restricted from the intestines in premature babies is unknown. The dead tissue is surgically removed surgically shortly after the baby is born, which results in Short Bowel Syndrome if a significant amount of intestine must be removed. Short Bowel Syndrome can also be a congenital condition that babies are born with, although this is quite rare.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of Short Bowel Syndrome include fluid retention, or edema, diarrhea, bloating, vomiting, bloody stools, stomach pain, fatigue and weight loss. The majority of protein and carbohydrates are absorbed in the small intestine. Ultimately, the inability of a premature baby's small and large intestine to properly absorb nutrients will cause her to become malnourished. This is a serious consequence of Short Bowel Syndrome, resulting in growth impairment, anemia, dehydration and increased risk of infection.

Diagnosis

• An x-ray can determine whether a baby is afflicted with Short Bowel Syndrome. Gas patterns in the intestines are visible in the x-ray, and a doctor can determine whether they are abnormal or if there are holes in the intestines. Measurements of the baby's stomach are also taken, to keep track of bloating. A surgeon can also withdraw intestinal fluid using a needle to determine where there's an excess of bacteria, and blood samples can be checked for bacteria as well.

Treatment

• Short Bowel Syndrome requires total parenteral nutrition, which is a balanced intravenous or oral liquid diet that provides necessary vitamins, minerals and nutrients, and encourages the growth of good bacteria in the intestines. A doctor may recommend nasogastric drainage where a tube is inserted through the nose down into the stomach to remove excessive fluid and air. Antibiotics may be necessary if there's an excess of harmful bacteria in the baby's stomach and intestines.

Prognosis

• Babies who suffer from Short Bowel Syndrome will require long-term care and monitoring, especially when it comes to diet and nutrition. As babies with Short Bowel Syndrome grow, their diets must be readjusted to ensure a balanced absorption of fats, proteins, carbohydrates and nutrients. A complex and well-monitored administration of vitamins is also necessary to ensure the baby grows properly. With careful feeding and monitoring, premature babies with Short Bowel Syndrome can grow into healthy adults.