To review the spectrum of radiological findings in surgical causes of GI emergencies in infants. To develop an approach to the diagnosis of surgical GI emergencies involving clinical and imaging data. This presentation will show some examples of the common surgical GI emergencies in infants, along with the imaging techniques used for the diagnosis of these disorders.

Gastro-intestinal obstructions are one of the most common surgical emergencies in the infantile age group The conditions can be further subdivided into those that present in the immediate postnatal period and those that occur later DIAGNOSIS: A. Clinical signs and symptoms: Emesis - Bilious ( proximal obstructions) or non bilious Failure to pass meconium ( first 24 hours of life) Constipation ( after first day of life) Abdominal distension ( more common in lower obstructions) B. Diagnostic Imaging - constellation of findings on: Conventional radography...

For evaluation and diagnosis bowel obstruction in infants can be divided into: 1. HIGH BOWEL OBSTRUCTION occuring proximal to ileum 3 or fewer dilated bowel loops various combination of gastric, duodenal and jejunal dilatation 2. LOW BOWEL OBSTRUCTION diffuse dilatation of small bowel loops more than 3 dilated bowel loops involve distal ileum or colon HIGH BOWEL OBSTRUCTION 1. Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis more common in first born male child 2-6 weeks after birth Plain radiograph: single bubble sign (dilated stomach) Fig. 3 Ultrasonography:Pyloric muscle thickness...

Imaging studies provide a spectrum of specific findings in surgical GI emergencies in infants. By providing a diagnostic approach these findings along with clinical features are helpful to form an accurate diagnosis and guide the appropriate management. Conventional radiography, GI contrast studies and Sonography coupled with color Doppler continue to prove as first line diagnostic modalities in surgical GI conditions of infants. Successful management depends on timely diagnosis and appropriate intervention.

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