Delayed laparotomy and gastric repair in gastric perforation: A case report in the neonatal patient

Background: The incidence of gastric perforation in neonates is rare but has a high mortality rate of 15-70%. Spontaneous gastric perforation in neonates is estimated to occur in one of 2,900 live births and accounts for approximately 7% of all gastrointestinal perforations in neonates and children. Case: We present a case of gastric perforation complicated by sepsis, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and hypoalbuminemia in a 3-day-old girl. The patient was brought to the emergency room of Dr. Soetomo Hospital Surabaya with blood vomiting complaints from 1 day. On physical examination, it was found that the general condition was weak, with an axillary temperature of 38.2° C. The abdomen looked distended from inspection of the abdominal region, with the dilated vein and periumbilical hyperemia. Its percussion revealed the loss of liver dullness. The results of laboratory examinations: Hb 10.7 g/dl, Platelet 14,000/mm³, Albumin 2,6 g/dl. Plain thoracoabdominal X-Ray study showed a pneumoperitoneum. Needle decompression was performed because there were signs of Abdominal Compartment Syndrome (ACS). After five days of optimization in the Intensive Care Unit, a laparotomy exploration and primary repair of gastric perforation were conducted. Conclusion: Gastric perforation in neonates is a rare condition. The management principle for each patient is different depending on the patient’s condition. Needle decompression is indicated when ACS is present or the patient’s condition is not optimal for surgery. Definitive laparotomy can be done after the patient’s condition has been stabilized. Proper selection of treatment can improve the patient’s outcome and reduce the risk of morbidity and mortality.