Necrotizing enterocolitis due to congenital complete atrioventricular block

Abstract

Some of the cardiac diseases are known to predispose to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). However, congenital atrioventricular (AV) block, resulting in NEC, has not hitherto been reported. We report a newborn with bradycardia who was proved to have a complete congenital heart block and operated due to NEC on her third day of life. Although there was no pacemaker indication with an atrial rate of 125 and ventricular rate of 55 bpm, a temporary pacing was accomplished. Unfortunately, the patient worsened postoperatively and died of cardiopulmonary arrest. Therefore, as in other diseases, which cause low tissue perfusion, it should be considered that congenital AV block may result in mesenteric ischemia and NEC. We suggest that any patient with AV block presenting with NEC should undergo pacemaker placement even with high ventricular rates.