Which of the following does NOT contribute to bowel obstruction in infants?

Severe dehydration does not typically contribute to bowel obstruction in infants. Bowel obstructions are most often caused by physical factors that create a blockage in the intestinal lumen, such as anatomical abnormalities, adhesions from prior surgeries or infections, or the presence of meconium plugs.

Congenital stenosis, for example, refers to a narrowing of the intestine due to developmental issues which can directly obstruct the passageway. Similarly, peritoneal adhesions develop in response to surgeries or inflammation, creating fibrous bands that can tether parts of the bowel and impede normal movement. A meconium plug occurs when thick stool accumulates, often in babies who are not passing their first stool, blocking the intestinal passage.

In contrast, severe dehydration primarily leads to decreased bowel motility rather than a physical blockage. While dehydration can cause other gastrointestinal issues, like constipation, it does not instigate the same obstruction-type problems seen with the other listed causes. Therefore, it is not considered a contributor to bowel obstruction.