Necrotizing enterocolitis refers to a condition which causes a part of the newborn baby’s intestinal wall to fall off. This condition can be attributed to poor sanitary conditions in a hospital, failure to respond to a baby’s infection in a timely manner, as well as the unnecessary use of forceful birth methods such as the use of forceps and clamps.
Necrotizing enterocolitis can turn fatal very suddenly. It is thus very important to have a doctor intervene immediately to save the life of your child. Children are born with weak immune systems which predispose them to infections as well as little to no bacterial flora in their stomachs which usually affords humans with some kind of protection against pathogens.
Here are some necrotizing enterocolitis warning signs:
- A high fever
- A distended or hard stomach
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Bloody stool
- Greenish bile
- Baby refusing to nurse or eat
- Breathing pauses
The following are danger signs that you must NOT ignore:
- Discolored stomach
- Systematic hypotension
- Intestinal perforation
- Peritonitis
Necrotizing Enterocolitis Treatment
25 percent of babies diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis die, and this is why it is important for doctors to act fast. Once it is discovered, doctors will commence IV administration of vitamins and fluids, and a narogastric or norogastric tube is inserted into the baby’s stomach to remove food and air from the baby’s stomach. In some instances, doctors will advise that the baby be put on antibiotics as well as have surgery performed to remove sections of the intestine in order to have an ileostomy or colostomy bag placed temporarily. Once the intestine has healed, the bowel will be reconnected to resume normal fecal excretion.
Legal Help for Birth Injuries
Necrotizing enterocolitis is almost always due to medical negligence. As a result, it is important not to let careless and inept medical professionals get away with offering substandard care. Consider filing a medical malpractice lawsuit so you can get justice for your baby and family. Need help? Call us today on 877-561-3004 for your free and confidential consultation.