Fetal gastroschisis: epidemiological characteristics and pregnancy outcomes in Mississippi

We describe the epidemiological characteristics and identify maternal-fetal outcomes in pregnancies complicated by gastroschisis. We retrospectively reviewed 115 cases of gastroschisis at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The incidence of gastroschisis trended upward between 2000 and 2008. Significant proportions of mothers were nonobese, nulliparous, teenagers, smokers, and nonconsumers of alcohol. Infants delivered at > 36 weeks or without sepsis had shorter hospital stay (HS) and interval to full enteral feeding (FEF). The rates of low birth weight (LBW), fetal growth restriction, and spontaneous preterm birth (PTB) were 63%, 45%, and 24%, respectively. Bowel atresia was noted in 9%. Rates of primary closure (25%), neonatal sepsis (29%), fetal death (2%), and infant mortality (4%) were notable. Median HS and interval to FEF were 40 and 30 days, respectively. The incidence of gastroschisis is increasing in Mississippi. Sepsis, LBW, and PTB are key determinants of poor infant outcomes.