Alternative Names
Congenital hypertrophic pyloric stenosis; Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis; Gastric outlet obstruction
Definition of Pyloric stenosis
Pyloric stenosis is a narrowing of the pylorus, the opening from the stomach into the small intestine.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Normally, food passes easily from the stomach into the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) through a valve called the pylorus. In pyloric stenosis, the muscles of the pylorus are thickened. This thickening prevents the stomach from emptying into the small intestine.
Symptoms
Vomiting is the first symptom in most children:
Signs and tests
The condition is usually diagnosed before the baby is 6 months old.
Treatment
Treatment for pyloric stenosis involves surgery (called a pyloromyotomy) to split the overdeveloped muscles.
Expectations (prognosis)
Surgery usually provides complete relief of symptoms. The infant can usually tolerate small, frequent feedings several hours after surgery.
Review
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 8/2/2009
