Acquired colonic atresia in children: a report of three cases and review of the literature

We describe cases of three infants who developed acquired colonic atresia presumed secondary to significant systemic cardiovascular compromise and in the absence of necrotizing enterocolitis. An acquired colonic atresia may present as feed intolerance and should be investigated with a lower gastrointestinal contrast study. We would also recommend routine lower gastrointestinal contrast study prior to stoma closure in an infant with history of significant cardiovascular compromise, even in the absence of significant widespread colonic inflammation such as necrotizing enterocolitis.