Source
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES:
To study the relationship between prenatal ultrasound features and postnatal course of meconium peritonitis.
METHODS:
Meconium peritonitis was diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound. Fetuses were treated by intrauterine paracentesis of ascites when indicated, and symptomatic newborns received surgery.
RESULTS:
Totally 17 cases were enrolled. Prenatal ultrasound findings include abdominal calcification (16/17), fetal ascites (12/17), hydramnios (9/17), pseudocyst (7/17) and dilated bowel loop (6/17). Persistent ascites, pseudocyst or dilated bowel loop are most sensitive (92%) to predict postnatal surgery (p = 0.022). The survivors have a higher gestational age at birth (36.4 vs. 33.3 weeks, p = 0.008). Persistent ascites and postnatal persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborns significantly correlate with neonatal mortality (p = 0.029 and 0.022).
CONCLUSION:
Prenatal ultrasound can predict the neonatal outcome in meconium peritonitis.
Copyright 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel