MICROCOLON AT THE BEGINNING OF LIFE: A CASE SERIES

Introduction: Lower bowel obstruction is common abdominal emergency in neonates, with various underlying etiologies from mild to life threatening conditions. Microcolon is an important radiologic feature on fluoroscopic contrast enema studies in neonates with bowel obstruction. Case Series: First case was showed microcolon with distal ileal obstruction. On laparotomy exploration found that type I ileal atresia at distal mucosal segment with an intact bowel wall and mesentery. Second case was appeared microcolon with ileo-caecum obstruction. Intra-operatively found that type 3A ileal atresia at the terminal ileum with a V-shaped mesenteric defect between the proximal and distal segment. Third case was caused by meconium ileus and revealed microcolon with multiple filling defects intralumen colon. Discussion: Microcolon results from intrauterine underutilization or what is termed "unused colon", including entities in which meconium is not passed through the colon during in utero development. It's indications for contrast enema studies to determine the site of level of obstruction is at the ileum or at any segment of the colon. Conclusion: Appropriate imaging evaluation plays an important role in diagnosis for immediate treatment and avoids complications to maintain neonate's bowel integrity and function.