GASTROSCHISIS

What is gastroschisis?

Gastroschisis is the herniation (protrusion) of abdominal contents through the abdominal wall without involving the umbilical cord. This defect can be detected by ultrasound before birth and is located to the right of the intact umbilical cord. It is not encased in a protective sac. If this defect has been there for a long time prior to birth, the abdominal cavity will be small and the protruding bowel will be thickened as a result of poor blood return and irritation from the amniotic fluid. It is unusual for a child born with gastroschisis to have other serious birth defects.

How is gastroschisis treated?

Therapy is directed toward nutrition, surgical closure of the defect, and prevention of infection. Placing the abdominal contents back inside the abdominal wall is the preferred treatment but this is not always possible. When the abdomen is too small, a Silastic (plastic) pouch is placed over the abdominal contents to contain the bowel and aid in reduction until surgical closure is possible. When the abdominal contents have returned to the abdominal cavity with the aid of gravity, the opening is surgically closed. Returning the abdominal contents into the abdominal cavity can take up to ten days. The baby is usually on a breathing machine (or ventilator) during the time it takes for this return.  

When can my baby go home?

A special catheter may be inserted to allow long term feedings by vein until normal bowel function returns, a process that can take up to 3 months. When the baby is restarted on feeds, feedings may need to be stopped and restarted a number of times. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask any member of the Pediatric Surgery Team.

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