Pyloric Stenosis

Picture of pyloric stenosis

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

Pyloric stenosis is a condition in which a baby's pylorus (the connection between the stomach and the first part of the small intestine) gradually swells and thickens. This interferes with food entering the intestine and causes the baby to vomit most or all of his or her feedings.

To treat pyloric stenosis, a surgeon cuts the ring of muscle (sphincter) in the pylorus. This widens the channel between the stomach and the intestine. Pyloric stenosis does not usually occur again after a baby has been treated.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerJohn Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical ReviewerBrad W. Warner, MD - Pediatric Surgery
Last RevisedDecember 9, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: December 9, 2011
Medical Review: John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Brad W. Warner, MD - Pediatric Surgery

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