Focal intestinal perforation in late preterm and term neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy

Abstract

Focal intestinal perforation (FIP) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in extremely low birth weight neonates. In late preterm or term neonates, birth asphyxia is a risk factor for FIP, although recent reports of FIP in these patients are limited. We describe two cases of FIP, one in a late preterm neonate and one in a term neonate, both associated with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. Potential risk factors and pathophysiological mechanisms of FIP in late preterm and term neonates are discussed.