Alimentary tract duplications are a rare type of mass or cyst that grows in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. They can vary in size and shape and are usually attached to a specific organ. Although alimentary tract duplications can form anywhere along the GI tract, the most common location is in the small intestine.
These masses develop during early pregnancy and are a condition a baby is born with.
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What are the signs and symptoms of alimentary tract duplications?
The symptoms of alimentary tract duplications can vary depending on where they are located. Symptoms may include:
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Internal bleeding
- Trouble breathing
What causes alimentary tract duplications?
Alimentary tract duplications occur early in pregnancy when a baby is still developing. Experts aren’t sure exactly what causes them.
How are alimentary tract duplications treated?
Alimentary tract duplications need to be removed by surgery. The goal is to remove as much of the mass as possible, so it does not grow back.
At Connecticut Children’s, our surgeons use minimally invasive techniques to remove alimentary tract duplications and other GI masses whenever possible.