[Segmental colonic atresia - a contribution to the differential diagnosis of ileus in the newborn (author's transl)].

Segmental atresia of the colon is regarded as an urgent emergency in the neonatal period and quick diagnosis and surgical interference are necessary. In spite of the rarity of this condition it could be thought about in the differential diagnosis in infants with relevant symptoms and can be diagnosed by simple means. The author's own technique is described in relation to the case of atresia of the transverse colon. The aetiology, classification, clinical picture, diagnosis and treatment are discussed. The prognosis depends very much on early diagnosis.