Oral Gastrografin: A Safe Alternative in Meconium Obstruction of Prematurity

Abstract

Meconium obstruction of prematurity is primarily seen among very low birthweight or extremely low birthweight premature babies, causing low intestinal obstruction. It may delay the establishment of early full enteral feeding and compromise nutrition or cause obstruction requiring surgery or intestinal perforation. Currently, the management is mainly based on expert opinion and low-quality evidence. Conventional hyperosmolar contrast enema and gastrografin enema may not reach the site of obstruction because of the proximal nature of the meconium obstruction. Oral gastrografin is an effective and safe alternative for relieving meconium obstruction in a 28-week preterm baby. This avoids the need for surgery. This article highlights the use of oral route of gastrografin as a good nonsurgical alternative in extreme preterm babies in resource-limited circumstances.