What are the tests for intestinal atresia?

X-rays: Usually intestinal atresis can be suspected by plain abdominal x-rays. More specific tests include contrast studies: upper GI contrast study and contrast enema study.

Ultrasound, x-ray: Ultrasounds can be used to diagnose intestinal atresia prior to birth. Once born if suspected, plain abdominal films or with contrast can diagnose and locate level of intestinal atresia.

Ultrasound/xray: This depends whether before or after birth. An ultrasound of the fetus may identify dilated bowel which may/may not be an atresia. Similarly after delivery, an x-ray or contrast study may help. However, definitively, surgery identifies whether, in fact, the problem is an atresia.

Imaging: Usually radiographic imaging of abdomen looking for dilated loops of bowel and no bowel gas distal to obstruction. Sometimes contrast studies such as upper gastrointestinal series or contrast enema are performed.