Spontaneous Gastric Perforation in a Neonate Presenting as Gastric Outlet Obstruction

Gastric perforation in neonates is a rare but frequently fatal condition which is associated with massive pneumoperitoneum in radiography. Here, we report a case of neonatal spontaneous gastric perforation presenting as gastric outlet obstruction rather than pneumoperitoneum. Physical examination and imaging modalities were indicative of abdominal distension and gastric outlet obstruction. With diagnosis of gastric perforation at laparotomy, subtotal gastric resection was performed and a feeding jejunostomy was placed. The present report highlights that gastric perforation should be of clinical suspicion in neonates with abdominal distension and unusual imaging findings rather than pneumoperitoneum. Keywords: Spontaneous gastric perforation; gastric outlet obstruction; pneumoperitoneum