Cosmetic Outcomes of Sutureless Closure in Gastroschisis

Purpose A sutureless gastroschisis repair allows for spontaneous closure of abdominal wall defect. We report our experience focusing on final esthetic outcome. Methods Retrospective data were collected from medical reports of all neonates with gastroschisis operated from January 2009 to December 2013. Variables recorded included patients descriptors, management modality, and cosmetic outcome. Results From the overall group of 38 patients with gastroschisis, 20 infants treated with sutureless closure were included in this study. In the analyzed cohort, 17 (85%) children were operated under general anesthesia and 3 (15%) without intubation. Primary reduction was possible in 15 (75%) cases, and in 5 (25%) we used silo. There were two (10%) deaths in late postoperative course due to septic complications. Three (15%) infants needed laparotomy because of adhesions and bowel obstruction. There were no infectious complications of the wound. Only 55% (10/18) of children presented umbilical hernia prior to discharge. Only two (11%) children with umbilical hernia were operated until now. Almost all patients (16/18; 89%) present excellent final cosmetic result without scar formation. Conclusion Sutureless closure of uncomplicated gastroschisis is a safe technique that reduces need of intubation and provides excellent cosmetic results.