investigations

Last reviewed 01/2018

Investigations are directed by the history, and include:

  • urea and electrolyte measurement are indicated if there has been prolonged vomiting, or if surgery is being considered
  • plain abdominal radiology, which will reveal loops of distended bowel, double bubbles or intraluminal gas.
  • ultrasound scan may help in the diagnosis of pyloric stenosis or abscesses, but is operator dependent
  • barium enema may be used in meconium ileum or Hirschsprung's disease