Back
Print 

Malrotation of the intestines

Skip Navigation

Top of the page

Malrotation is a birth defect caused by the incorrect positioning of a fetus's intestines in the abdomen while the fetus is still in the uterus. Malrotation can cause sudden twisting of the intestines.

Most infants with malrotation develop symptoms during the first month of life. Symptoms include:

  • Vomiting of blood or yellow or green liquid (bile).
  • A swollen, painful abdomen.
  • Poor feeding.
  • Weight loss.
  • Extreme fussiness or crying that can't be comforted.

It is a medical emergency if an infant is vomiting blood or green liquid.

If malrotation of the intestines causes symptoms, surgery usually is required to correct the position of the intestines.

Malrotation doesn't cause symptoms in all infants.

Current as of: October 19, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 19, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.