Nonoperative Care Resolves Pediatric Duodenal Obstruction

Monitoring and nutritional support resolved obstruction from retroperitoneal hematoma following surgical repair of gastric perforation

By
Andrea Surnit
April 3, 2026
3 min

Conexiant

Objective:

To report a case of successful nonoperative management of duodenal obstruction caused by a retroperitoneal hematoma in a pediatric patient, highlighting its significance in the context of limited existing literature.

Key Findings:

Conservative management can resolve duodenal obstruction in pediatric patients.
The patient achieved hemodynamic stability by postoperative day 5.
Oral intake was successfully resumed 23 days post-injury, which is longer than typical adult cases.

Interpretation:

This case suggests that nonoperative management may be effective for pediatric duodenal obstruction due to retroperitoneal hematoma, contrasting with typical surgical approaches and outcomes.

Limitations:

Limited published pediatric cases on nonoperative management of similar injuries, which may affect generalizability.
Potential for complications requires careful monitoring, particularly in hemodynamically unstable patients.

Conclusion:

Nonoperative management, with careful clinical and imaging monitoring, can effectively treat pediatric duodenal obstruction and may reduce the need for surgical intervention.