In patients with short gut (<40 cm of small intestine), one should monitor for
malabsorption and diarrhea (reducing substances in stool). Patients who have required
ileostomy may have difficulty absorbing sodium. Low systemic levels of sodium would
lead to poor weight gain. Random urine sodium should be monitored when these
patients are on full enteral feeds. If urine sodium is <5-10, supplemental sodium should
be given.
Outcome and Potential Complications
Most patients with intestinal atresia do well. Predictably, those with a limited
length of intestine may have issues relatable to short bowel syndrome. If the dilated
segment is not resected, problems with motility in this segment may be seen. This
functional intestinal obstruction leads to poor peristalsis, impaired digestion and
absorption, as well as bacterial overgrowth.