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Gastroschisis: etiology, diagnosis, delivery options, and care
John King1, Debbie Fraser Askin
1US Navy Nurse Corps, Jacksonville, Florida, USA. jaking@ufl.edu
Insights
Gastroschisis is a congenital defect where abdominal organs exit the body. Modern neonatal care offers excellent survival rates for affected infants with proper management.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal surgery
- Pediatric surgery
- Congenital anomalies
Background:
- Gastroschisis is a common congenital abdominal wall defect.
- It involves the herniation of fetal abdominal viscera into the amniotic cavity.
Observation:
- This article reviews gastroschisis etiology, prenatal diagnosis, and delivery strategies.
- It details immediate postnatal interventions for thermal and fluid management, and bowel protection.
- Surgical options, postoperative care, complications, respiratory distress, and nutritional support are discussed.
Findings:
- Advances in neonatal care and nutrition are crucial for infant survival.
- Meticulous attention to detail in management significantly improves outcomes.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and comprehensive postnatal care are vital for infants with gastroschisis.
- Improved survival rates are achievable with current medical advancements.
- Parental support and education are important aspects of managing this condition.
Abstract:
Gastroschisis, one of the more common congenital abdominal wall defects, results in herniation of fetal abdominal viscera into the amniotic cavity. This article discusses theories about gastroschisis etiology, in utero diagnostic tools, delivery options, and postdelivery care. Included are detailed considerations regarding immediate interventions after delivery to support the infant's thermal and fluid management needs and to protect the exposed bowel. Surgical options and postoperative care issues and complications are reviewed, as are respiratory distress and vena cava compression from increased abdominal pressure, nutritional support, and interventions related to the prevention of infection. Giving birth to an infant with gastroschisis is an upsetting experience for parents. Evidence suggests, however, that with today's advances in neonatal care and nutrition and with meticulous attention, the survival rate for infants born with gastroschisis can be excellent.