Pyloric Stenosis In Children
Your Orange County pediatric surgeons at Pediatric Surgical Associates specialize in the treatment of pyloric stenosis in children, a common condition that occurs during infancy where the lower part of the stomach enlarges and narrows the opening of the pylorus.
The pylorus is the part of the stomach that links to the small intestine. Pyloric stenosis causes congestion and prevents food from entering the small intestine, which often leads to dehydration.
Pyloric Stenosis Information
Symptoms of Pyloric Stenosis
Pyloric stenosis usually occurs in the first few weeks after the infant’s birth. The most common symptoms is abnormal vomiting, which makes the baby constantly hungry. Specifically, symptoms may include:
- Vomiting in infants 2-3 months old and as late as 6 months old
- Vomiting that occurs within 30-60 minutes after feeding
- Weight loss and yellowish or jaundiced appearance
- Loss of energy or lethargy
- Dehydration
Infants react to this condition in different ways. Pyloric stenosis symptoms may also be similar to signs of other medical conditions. Please feel free to call our office for consultation.
Pyloric Stenosis Causes
Pyloric Stenosis is caused by multiple factors. Most of the time, these factors are due to both genetic and environmental influences. Studies show that male infants are more likely to experience this problem than females.
Diagnosis of Pyloric Stenosis
At Pediatric Surgical Associates, we offer a full range of diagnostic procedures by conducting complete physical examination and collecting complete medical records. In addition, our pyloric stenosis diagnosis procedures may include:
- Ultrasound of the upper gastrointestinal organ
- Blood test to confirm dehydration
Pyloric Stenosis Treatment
Your Orange County pediatric surgeons at Pediatric Surgical Associates determine the type of treatment your child should receive depending on a few factors. These factors include:
- Age
- Physical attributes
- The infant’s tolerance for medications and other procedures
- Severity of the condition
Once the diagnosis is completed, our skilled pediatric surgeons and healthcare team will manage your child’s care, starting with intravenous nourishment to address dehydration and mineral imbalance. After these imbalances are corrected, a surgical procedure called pyloromyotomy can be safely conducted. Our team of pediatric surgeons and anesthesiologist will meet with your family to discuss the procedure.
Pyloromyotomy is a minimally invasive surgery to repair the pylorus. This procedure is done using laparoscopic approach (involving a small incision and use of a tiny camera) through your baby’s nasal cavity. The surgery will cut the tight muscles between the stomach and the small intestine to relieve the blockage and allow the food to pass easily. Your child will be monitored closely and may receive antibiotics to prevent infection. Your baby can resume normal eating 6 hours after the procedure and will be able to go home within a couple of days.
Your Orange County pediatric surgeons and pyloric stenosis specialists at the Pediatric Surgical Associates are here to discuss the best treatment option with the best possible outcome for your child. Call 714-361-4480 or Contact Us for more information or to make an appointment.