Intestinal obstruction due to inspissated milk

Definition

Mechanical intestinal obstruction in premature infants due to hard milk curds formed when high-energy formula or powdered milk is fed in the presence of reduced intestinal motility and increased absorption of water from the colon. The site of obstruction is the terminal ileum, the ileocaecal valve, or the colon. The manifestations include constipation, abdominal distension, and vomiting (progressively bilious or faecal).

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