Nonobstructive Diffuse Dilated Bowel Loops: Prenatal Diagnosis, Fetal Characteristics and Neonatal Outcomes

Objectives The purpose of this study was to describe the characteristics and outcomes of fetuses with a diagnosis of nonobstructive diffuse dilated bowel loops. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of all pregnancies with fetal diagnosis of nonobstructive diffuse dilated bowel loops over 14 years in a large tertiary referral center. Fetomaternal and neonatal characteristics and outcomes were assessed. Results Seven fetuses had sonograms showing diffuse dilated bowel loops; none of them had intestinal obstruction after labor. The median gestational age at diagnosis was 33 weeks 1 day (range, 27 weeks–34 weeks 1 day). The median gestational age at delivery was 34 weeks 1 day (range, 32 weeks 4 days–39 weeks 1 day). Four cases had premature rupture of membranes beyond 32 weeks. Four among the 7 had gastrointestinal manifestations. Three cases presented with hematochezia, which resolved with conservative treatment. One fetus had intractable diarrhea, had a diagnosis of rare microvillus inclusion disease, and died of sepsis after 92 days. Not a single case of Hirschsprung disease was observed in our group. Conclusions Nonobstructive diffuse dilated bowel loops diagnosed in the second half of pregnancy are associated with premature rupture of membranes and premature labor. As neonatal gastrointestinal complications may be anticipated, prenatal parental counseling with a neonatologist and pediatric gastroenterologist should be conducted.