Purpose or Case Report: There are numerous congenital anomalies of the gastrointestinal tract with varying frequency. Some anomalies are life-threatening and require prompt diagnosis with immediate treatment. Evaluation of patients with these anomalies can be complex, sometimes requiring multiple imaging modalities for accurate diagnoses and timely treatment. It is therefore essential for radiologists to have a firm understanding of specific imaging features. The purpose of this exhibit is to review common and uncommon congenital anomalies of the gastrointestinal tract, including clinical and imaging features as well as treatment options.
Methods & Materials: A single institution retrospective review was conducted to identify pediatric patients with congenital abnormalities of the gastrointestinal tract. Each patient’s imaging studies were correlated with pathology results, surgical findings, and clinical course.
Results: Embryologic development, relevant anatomy, as well as imaging features associated with congenital gastrointestinal anomalies are presented. Common pitfalls leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment of these anomalies are addressed. A broad range of cases is presented including, esophageal atresia with and without fistula, esophageal rings/slings, malrotation with and without midgut volvulus, duodenal web, duodenal, jejunal, and ileal atresia, gastroschisis, Hirschpsrung disease, meconium ileus, microcolon, and anorectal malformations. Cased-based examples are supplemented with a review of the current literature.
Conclusions: Many embryologic abnormalities can affect the gastrointestinal tract, which have important implications for patient care including treatment and prognosis in the pediatric population. Knowledge of normal alimentary development and characteristic imaging findings of congenital malformations can aid radiologists in delivering timely and accurate diagnoses, enabling appropriate interventions that have maximal benefit to patients.