Milk bolus obstruction in the neonate.

Seventeen cases of neonatal intestinal obstruction due to inspissated milk curds were seen at this hospital in the 9 years 1964-1972. The obstruction started on the 2nd to 10th day of life. Half the babies passed blood from the rectum and in most the x-rays were diagnostic. All survived, 14 after operation and 3 after medical treatment with a Gastrografin enema. Incomplete absorption of solids, particularly the fat from cows' milk feeds, is suggested as the cause.