What is the recommended treatment for duodenal atresia?

Duodenal atresia is a congenital condition characterized by a complete obstruction of the duodenum, preventing normal passage of food from the stomach to the intestines. The underlying issue typically involves a failure of the duodenum to develop properly during fetal life, which results in a blockage that needs to be addressed for the infant to thrive.

The definitive treatment for duodenal atresia is surgical correction. This procedure involves re-establishing continuity of the digestive tract by removing the obstructed segment of the duodenum and often performing anastomosis, where the healthy sections of the intestines are sewn back together. This surgical intervention allows for normal digestion and nutrient absorption, which is crucial for the growth and development of the infant.

While other options like medical management or dietary modifications exist for various gastrointestinal issues, they are not suitable for treating a structural defect like duodenal atresia. Endoscopic techniques may be useful for other types of obstructions, but they are not appropriate for resolving the complete obstruction caused by duodenal atresia. Therefore, surgical correction is the clear and established approach to managing this serious condition effectively.