The value of ultrasound in diagnosis of neonatal upper and lower gastrointestinal perforation

Abstract

Objective To explore the value of ultrasound in the differential diagnosis of neonatal upper and lower gastrointestinal tract(GIT)perforation. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the ultrasound findings of 42 neonates of surgery-confirmed neonatal GIT perforation in our hospital from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2018.The accuracy of ultrasound for detecting GIT perforation and the ultrasound features of upper and lower GIT perforation were evaluated. Results (1)Of the 42 neonates with GIT perforation, 1 case didn′t undergo ultrasound, 2 cases were missed, and 1 case was misdiagnosed.Thirty-eight neonates were diagnosed of GIT perforation by ultrasound preoperatively, with a detection rate of 92.7%(38/41). The locations of GIT perforation were identified by ultrasound in 30 cases(78.9%, 30/38), including 11 cases of upper GIT perforation and 19 cases of lower GIT perforation.(2)A common sonographic finding of GIT perforation in 38 cases was pneumoperitoneum, which appeared as an echogenic line with posterior reverberation artifact under diaphragm or anterior to hepatic/splenic surface and a "stratosphere" sign in M-mode sonography.Free gas changed position when the patient′s position was changed, and didn′t change due to respiratory change.Besides, free gas dispersed with compression on abdomen, and gathered without compression.(3)Upper GIT perforation was showed that poor filling of the stomach cavity, and the abdominal free gas sharply increased.Lower GIT perforation was characterized by collapsed bowel, blurred and interrupted intestinal wall structure, and more accompanied with intestinal obstruction.(4)There was no significant difference of detection rate between ultrasound and X-ray in diagnosing GIT perforation[92.7%(38/41)vs.83.3%(35/42)](P>0.05), whereas ultrasound more sensitive for a very small amount of free gas in the early stage of perforation.(5)Helicobacter pylori infection was found in two cases of GIT perforation. Conclusion Ultrasound can be used for differential diagnosis of upper and lower GIT perforation, and could be recommended as the first choice for detecting GIT perforation in neonatal patients. Key words: Ultrasound; Upper gastrointestinal tract perforation; Lower gastrointestinal tract perforation; Intestinal obstruction