What to do if you have congenital biliary atresia in a newborn

Neonatal congenital biliary atresia is a serious hepatobiliary disease that must be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. Common treatments include Kasai surgery, liver transplantation, and supportive care. Parents should closely observe symptoms such as jaundice and light-colored stools in newborns and seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid delaying the best treatment opportunity.

1). Causes and manifestations of biliary atresia

The specific cause of congenital biliary atresia is not yet fully understood, and it may be related to factors such as genetics, viral infection, and autoimmune abnormalities. Its main problem is that there is obstruction in the infant's bile duct system, which prevents bile from being discharged into the intestine, thereby causing liver damage. Clinical manifestations often include persistent jaundice (not subsiding for more than 2 weeks after birth), dark yellow urine, grayish-white stools, growth retardation, and even hepatosplenomegaly. Once parents discover that the newborn has persistent jaundice, they should take the child to the doctor in time for further diagnosis through liver function tests, imaging tests such as ultrasound, and liver biopsy.

2) Main treatment methods

Treatment of congenital biliary atresia should be based on the severity of the disease and the following methods should be selected:

- Kasai operation (portojejunostomy): It is suitable for the early stage after diagnosis (usually best performed within 3 months). It establishes a bile drainage channel through surgery, improves survival rate and ensures normal liver function.

- Liver transplantation: For patients who fail Kasai surgery or whose condition is severe, liver transplantation is the final treatment, which can completely relieve symptoms and restore biliary system function.

-Supportive treatment: including prevention of infection, vitamin supplementation (such as vitamin A, D, E, K) and adjustment of nutritional status to improve the child's general condition and delay the progression of the disease.

3). Postoperative care and family management

After surgery, parents must pay close attention to the baby's recovery, especially the temperature, jaundice and nutrition absorption. Follow the doctor's advice to have regular follow-up visits, monitor liver function and related indicators, and avoid complications such as infection. In terms of diet, it is recommended to use high-calorie, high-protein special milk powder or diet to supplement the energy and vitamins needed by the child.

The entire treatment process requires not only professional medical measures, but also the cooperation and long-term attention of parents. Early diagnosis and treatment of abnormalities can significantly improve the treatment effect and prolong the healthy life expectancy of children. If your child has similar problems, you should seek professional help from a regular hospital as soon as possible to confirm the condition and develop a treatment plan.