Paeds gastro conditions Flashcards
(170 cards)
definiton of GORD
contents from the stomach reflux through the lower oesophageal sphincter into the oesophagus, throat and mouth
pathophysiology of GORD
In babies there is immaturity of the lower oesophageal sphincter, allowing stomach contents to easily reflux into the oesophagus. It is normal for a baby to reflux feeds, and provided there is normal growth and the baby is otherwise well this is not a problem, however it can be upsetting for parents
% of infants stop having reflux by
90% by 1 year
presentation of GORD
causes of vomiting
red flags in gastro symptoms in children
management of GORD
- sandifer’s syndrome definition and features
- sandifer’s syndrome management and differentials
The condition tends to resolve as the reflux is treated or improves. Generally the outcome is good. It is worth referring patients with these symptoms to a specialist for assessment, as the differential diagnosis includes more serious conditions such as infantile spasms (West syndrome) and seizures.
- Pathophysiology of pyloric stenosis
- Most prominent presentation in pyloric stenosis
projectile vomiting
- What age does pyloric stenosis typically present
Pyloric stenosis typically presents in the first few weeks of life
- Presentation in pyloric stenosis
Pyloric stenosis typically presents in the first few weeks of life, with a hungry baby that is thin, pale and generally failing to thrive. The classic description of vomiting you should remember for your exams is “projectile vomiting”.
- Examination findings in pyloric stenosis
If examined after feeding, often the peristalsis can be seen by observing the abdomen. A firm, round mass can be felt in the upper abdomen that “feels like a large olive”. This is caused by the hypertrophic muscle of the pylorus.
- How is pyloric stenosis diagnosed?
abdominal US
- Investigation findings in pyloric stenosis
Blood gas analysis will show a hypochloric (low chloride) metabolic alkalosis as the baby is vomiting the hydrochloric acid from the stomach
US abdo will show a thickened pylorus
- Management of pyloric stenosis
Treatment involves a laparoscopic pyloromyotomy (known as “Ramstedt’s operation“). An incision is made in the smooth muscle of the pylorus to widen the canal allowing that food to pass from the stomach to the duodenum as normal. Prognosis is excellent following the operation.
differentials to pyloric stenosis
- Appendicitis definition and pathophysiology
- Signs and symptoms of appendicitis
- …suggest peritonitis, caused by a ruptured appendix
Rebound tenderness and percussion tenderness
diagnosis of appendicitis
Key Differential Diagnoses of Appendicitis
management of appendicitis
Removal of the inflamed appendix (appendicectomy) is the definitive management for acute appendicitis. Laparoscopic surgery is associated with fewer risks and faster recovery compared to open surgery (laparotomy).