Necrotizing enterocolitis is one of the most frequent and severe gastrointestinal emergencies occurring in the neonatal period. Once necrotizing enterocolitis is suspected a simple abdominal x-ray is a routine examination and this film will play an essential role in the diagnosis of the disease and the follow-up care of the patient, as well as in the detection of complications. In the present study we reviewed the pertinent literature and described the radiological findings, illustrated with cases from our institution. We concluded that the radiological diagnosis of necrotizing enterocolitis done at all stages contributes for an immediate therapeutic management, reducing the complications and improving the patient's survival.

Keywords: Necrotizing enterocolitis, Newborn, Radiological diagnosis