Apple-Peel Atresia
Severe form of jejunal atresia with extensive small bowel absence and characteristic vascular anatomy.
Full Definition
Apple-peel atresia, also known as Christmas tree deformity or type IIIb jejunal atresia, is a severe form of small bowel atresia characterized by proximal jejunal atresia, absence of a significant portion of the small bowel, and a spiraling arrangement of the distal intestine around a single feeding vessel from the ileocolic artery. This creates an appearance reminiscent of an apple peel, hence the name. The condition results in significant short gut syndrome and poses substantial challenges for nutritional management. Surgical treatment involves careful preservation of remaining bowel length, creation of intestinal continuity, and long-term management of short bowel syndrome including parenteral nutrition and eventual bowel rehabilitation procedures.
Usage
Usage note: Also called Christmas tree deformity due to characteristic appearance; associated with severe short gut syndrome.
In Context
- "Intraoperative findings revealed apple-peel atresia with only 40 cm of viable small bowel." — operative report
- "The patient with apple-peel atresia required long-term parenteral nutrition support." — discharge planning