Meconium Ileus

Meconium ileus is a mechanical obstruction of the small bowel and is often the first clinical manifestation of cystic fibrosis in the neonatal period. Affected neonates typically present with abdominal distention and failure to pass meconium within the first 48 hours of life. Diagnosis relies on a combination of imaging modalities, including radiographs and US, as well as confirmatory testing for cystic fibrosis through genetic and sweat chloride analysis. Management begins with hyperosmolar contrast enemas, which can be both diagnostic and therapeutic, while surgical intervention is reserved for complicated cases or when enema fails to resolve the obstruction.