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Pyloric stenosis

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

Pyloric stenosis is a condition in which a baby's pylorus (the connection between the stomach and the first part of the small intestine) gradually swells and thickens, which interferes with food entering the intestine. This causes the baby to vomit most or all of his or her feedings.

To treat pyloric stenosis, a surgeon cuts the ring of muscle (sphincter) in the pylorus. This widens the channel between the stomach and the intestine. Pyloric stenosis does not usually occur again after a baby has been treated.

Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD
- Pediatrics
Last Updated December 21, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: December 21, 2007
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