P76: Other intestinal obstruction of newborn

P76.0: Meconium plug syndrome

The intestines are made up of the small intestine and the large intestine or colon. Most of the nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine. The large intestine (colon) is where water and salt are withdrawn from the stool. The last segment of the large intestine (colon) is the rectum. Stool then leaves the body through the anus. The intestines are like a tube. There is a hollow space on the inside. The intestinal wall lies around this hollow space.

When the transportation of the intestine's content is disrupted, it is known as an intestinal obstruction. This can happen if, for example, the intestine has been narrowed, from the outside or inside, by an obstacle. An intestinal obstruction can cause vomiting, a bloated abdomen or abdominal pain.

If the child's first stool is thick and very tough, the large intestine can get blocked. There are then problems with defecation during the baby's first few days. It is then difficult, or impossible, to excrete the stool.