P76: Other intestinal obstruction of newborn

P76.1: Transitory ileus of newborn

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 The large intestine (colon) is where water and salt are withdrawn from the stool.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, gut motility is restricted by some other disorder.

For example, child gut motility can be restricted because the intestine is inflamed. Blood poisoning can also restrict gut motility. As a result, the content of the intestine cannot be transported towards the anus as it usually is. The child may then vomit, have a bloated stomach or suffer abdominal pain. It may then be difficult or impossible for the child to excrete the stool.

If the disorder causing the problem fades away, the intestinal obstruction can clear up. This is known as a temporary intestinal obstruction.