Prevalencia de malformaciones del sistema digestivo y pared abdominal en neonatos del Hospital Francisco de Icaza Bustamante en el período enero 2019 – mayo 2024.

Abstract

Introduction: Congenital malformations of the gastrointestinal tract represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in neonates, especially in developing countries. Recent studies have highlighted a high incidence of these pathologies, with atresias, stenoses, and abdominal wall defects (omphalocele and gastroschisis) being the most common. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of abdominal wall and digestive system malformations in neonatal patients admitted to the NICU of the Francisco de Icaza Bustamante Hospital between january 2019 and may 2024. Methodology: A retrospective, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted, including a total of 136 patients according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data was collected through the analysis of each medical record using the hospital's computer system. Results: A prevalence of 7.5% of these malformations was found in the study population, with gastroschisis being the most frequent. The mean gestational age was 37 weeks, and the mean weight was 2789 grams. Male patients predominated (62.5%). Regarding maternal risk factors, advanced maternal age, drug and alcohol use during pregnancy, and the presence of maternal comorbidities such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia stood out. In terms of clinical management, 80.1% of patients required surgical intervention. Conclusion: The high prevalence of malformations is highlighted, but it also shows the large number of modifiable maternal factors that could have led to the congenital malformation. This evidence highlights the urgent need to strengthen prenatal care.