ABSTRACT
Neonatal gastrointestinal (NGI) obstruction is one of the most common surgical emergencies in the neonatal period. Classically, it presents with bilious (green) vomiting, abdominal distension and no or delayed passage of meconium. The diagnosis must be established as early as possible to prevent clinical deterioration, aspiration pneumonia, sepsis and biochemical and haematological derangements. Early consideration of the need for surgical intervention may mean the difference between intestinal salvage and catastrophe.
