Postoperative free air is not always normal-necrotizing enterocolitis leading to concurrent colonic and gastric perforation

Abstract EN

We present a case of concurrent gastric and bowel perforation in a preterm neonate associated with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

Gastrointestinal perforation of any cause is a surgical emergency with high morbidity and mortality.

The most common cause of perforation in neonates is NEC followed by spontaneous ileal perforation.

Early suspicion of gastric perforation in preterm neonates with abdominal distention, and aggressive management with early resuscitation, stabilization and surgical exploration is recommended for better outcome.