Which one of the following is most suggestive of neonatal small bowel obstruction –
High-Yield Explanation
"Bilious vomiting is the most common symptom". — Internet
Intestinal obstruction in the newborn
Presentation depends on the site of obstruction.
1. Proximal obstruction
A history of polyhydramnios is common.
The higher the obstruction in the intestine the earlier the infant will develop vomiting which may be bile stained.
Abdominal distension will be less prominent.
Obstipation is less common.
2. Distal obstruction
Abdominal distension and obstipation are more common.
Vomiting is less common.
Note -
In neonates proximal intestinal obstruction is much more common than distal. So, bilious vomiting is the most common presentation of neonatal intestinal obstruction.