Correlation of complex ascites with intestinal gangrene and perforation in neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis.

Background/purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine whether a correlation exists between the finding of complex ascites on ultrasound (US) and the presence of intestinal perforation or gangrene in neonates with complicated necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

Methods: Charts of neonates with NEC (n = 76) whose care involved consultations with the pediatric surgery service between 2005 and 2008 were reviewed. Twenty-three babies with NEC without free air had a bedside abdominal US.