A Rare Cause of Intestinal Obstruction in a Newborn: Anomalous Congenital Band

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Military Hospital of Rabat, Morocco

*Corresponding author: Dr. Ayad Anass, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Military Hospital of Rabat, University Mohamed V of Rabat, Hay Riad, 1000, Rabat, Morocco, Phone: +212661315979, E-mail: [email protected]

Received Date: August 28, 2025

Publication Date: September 12, 2025

Citation: Ayad A, et al. (2025). A Rare Cause of Intestinal Obstruction in a Newborn: Anomalous Congenital Band. Cases. 4(2):24.

Copyright: Ayad A, et al. © (2025).

ABSTRACT

Anomalous congenital bands (ACBs) are rare anatomical anomalies that can cause acute intestinal obstruction in neonates and infants. Early recognition is critical as delayed diagnosis may lead to bowel ischemia or death. We report the case of a 5-day-old full-term newborn with progressive abdominal distension, bilious vomiting, and failure to pass stool. Radiological evaluation revealed duodenal obstruction, and surgical exploration identified a congenital fibrous band compressing the ileum. The band was excised, preserving bowel continuity, and the infant had an uneventful recovery. Clinicians should suspect ACBs in neonates with unexplained intestinal obstruction, as prompt surgical management can be lifesaving. Anomalous congenital bands (ACBs) are rare anatomical anomalies that can cause acute intestinal obstruction in neonates and infants. Their preoperative diagnosis is often challenging due to nonspecific clinical features and the absence of prior surgical history. We report the case of a 5-day-old full-term newborn who presented with signs of intestinal obstruction. Clinical evaluation revealed abdominal distension, bilious gastric residues, and absence of meconium passage. Abdominal radiography demonstrated air-fluid levels suggestive of small bowel obstruction. Surgical exploration revealed an anomalous congenital band compressing a segment of ileum, resulting in a mechanical obstruction. The band was resected, and an ileo-ileal end-to-end anastomosis was performed following resection of a dilated aperistaltic bowel segment. Postoperative recovery was uneventful.

Keywords: Anomalous Congenital Band, Neonatal Intestinal Obstruction, Bilious Vomiting, Congenital Bowel Anomalies, Neonatal Surgery