Pyloric Stenosis
What is it?
Pyloric stenosis: the muscular valve between the stomach and the small intestine becomes abnormally thickened, leading to partial or complete blockage. It typically presents between 3-6 weeks of age.
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Symptoms
- Projectile vomiting after feedings
- Persistent hunger despite regular feedings
- Weight loss and failure to gain weight
- Dehydration and decreased urine output (Priority concern)
- Palpable lump in the upper abdomen (due to an enlarged pylorus)
- Visible peristalsis
Treatment
Pyloromyotomy treats pyloric stenosis by cutting the thickened pyloric sphincter muscles to allow food to pass from the stomach to small intestine more easily
Pyloric Stenosis