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Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
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Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh

Newborn Congenital Anomalies

Newborn congenital anomalies, often referred to as birth defects, have a variety of causes ranging from pregnancy or birth complications to genetic malformations to viral infections in utero. In many cases, however, a congenital anomaly may have no known cause.

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What Are Newborn Congenital Anomalies?

Newborn congenital anomalies, often referred to as birth defects, have a variety of causes ranging from pregnancy or birth complications to genetic malformations to viral infections in utero. In many cases, however, a congenital anomaly may have no known cause.

The surgical treatment of congenital anomalies is cutting-edge at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Our pediatric surgeons perform many of the procedures using minimally invasive techniques, thoracoscopically or laparoscopically, allowing for smaller incisions, less pain, faster healing, and shorter lengths of stay in the hospital when a stay is necessary. Collaborative efforts with the other pediatric subspecialties at UPMC Children’s Hospital allow for all patients to receive multidisciplinary, comprehensive care.

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How Do You Diagnose Newborn Congenital Anomalies?

When a congenital anomaly is discovered, a complete physical examination is important to discover and rule out multiple malformations.

A detailed examination should include:

  • Head, neck, and facial features.
  • Skin.
  • Chest wall, heart, and lungs.
  • Abdomen.
  • Genitalia and anus.
  • Spine and back.
  • Extremities, including hands and feet.
  • Neurological functions and reflexes.

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What Newborn Congenital Anomalies Do You Treat?

Pediatric general surgeons treat a variety of congenital anomalies of the chest and abdomen.

These include, but are not limited to:

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How Do You Treat Newborn Congenital Anomalies?

UPMC Children’s takes full advantage of a multidisciplinary team approach. A team of experts may include diagnostic screenings and psychiatric support in addition to surgical treatments and referrals to pediatric general surgeons, plastic surgeons, and orthopaedic surgeons, among others.

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Why Choose UPMC for Newborn Congenital Anomalies Care?

At UPMC Children’s, every child diagnosed with a colorectal condition is handled with an individualized treatment plan and family-centered care.

In addition, cutting-edge research and the latest technology provide our patients with the best possible outcomes.

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Learn how to make an appointment with a surgeon at UPMC Children’s.

By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2026-01-09.