Evaluation of prenatal-postnatal outcomes and risk factors in fetal jejunoileal atresia

Abstract

Aims: The aim of the current study is to reveal ultrasonographic and clinical features, evaluation of prenatal-postnatal outcomes and risk factors of fetal jejunoileal atresia. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated all cases of fetal jejunoileal atresia identified between 2018 and 2024 at a tertiary centre of maternal-fetal medicine. In all cases, the pediatric surgery team confirmed the definitive diagnosis of jejunoileal atresia during the postnatal period. The cohort was divided into two groups, the "poor outcome" and "good outcome", in order to compare and evaluate risk factors determining the outcome. Results: During the study period, a total of 18 cases were recorded. All cases in the cohort managed to reach live birth. 15 (83.3%) neonates survived after the surgical procedure, whereas 3 (16.7%) neonates were deceased during the post-operative period. Short bowel syndrome was diagnosed in 2 (11.1%) living cases during postoperative follow-ups. <80 cm intact bowel length predicts poor outcome with 80% sensitivity and 92.3% specificity (p<0,015). The distance of the most proximal point of atresia to Treitz <40 cm predicts poor outcome with 80% sensitivity and 69.2% specificity (p<0,025). Conclusion: Fetal jejunoileal atresia still has high mortality and morbidity rates despite improved technology, surgical techniques and advanced postoperative care. Therefore, it is very important that the delivery and particularly surgical procedure should be performed by an experienced surgical team in well-equipped centers.

Keywords

• Fetal jejunoileal atresia
• prenatal diagnosis
• outcome
• risk factors

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