Meconium Ileus

Cystic fibrosis is one of the most common inheritable traits in Caucasians. Meconium ileus and its potential complications are the most likely reasons that these patients will need surgical care. Surgical intervention is usually needed in the neonatal period but may also be required later in life. This article discusses the various ways cystic fibrosis can affect the gastrointestinal tract. Both the operative and nonoperative management of complicated and uncomplicated meconium ileus are discussed in the neonatal period as well as long-term issues, such as distal intestinal obstructive syndrome, fibrosing colonopathy, and rectal prolapse, all of which may be seen in older children and adults.