Are there any long term problems from NEC?
Most babies who recover from NEC do not have further problems; but future problems are possible especially if there has been bowel perforation. NEC may recur the wound may become infected or break down.
The bowel may narrow due to scar tissue either caused by damage to the bowel or at the operation site. This is called a stricture. If this occurs another operation will be necessary to remove this piece of bowel. Sometimes if a lot of bowel has been removed this may cause problems with food absorption and therefore growth. Longer term intravenous feeding may be necessary (short bowel syndrome).
