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Long-term results in children with omphalocele and gastroschisis--a follow-up study
Insights
Long-term follow-up of children with gastroschisis or omphalocele revealed an increased risk of intestinal obstruction in infancy. While most children developed normally, some experienced recurrent abdominal pain and cosmetic concerns regarding surgical scars.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Congenital Malformations
Background:
- Omphalocele and gastroschisis are congenital abdominal wall defects requiring surgical intervention.
- Long-term outcomes for these conditions are crucial for patient management and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term outcomes in children treated for omphalocele or gastroschisis.
- To assess the incidence of complications and overall development in this patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 46 children operated on for omphalocele or gastroschisis was followed up.
- Data collection included questionnaires and medical examinations with imaging and laboratory tests.
Main Results:
- An increased incidence of intestinal obstruction was observed during the first year of life.
- Seven children reported recurrent abdominal pain, with no radiographic evidence of obstruction.
- Cosmetic concerns regarding the navel and abdominal scars were noted in some female patients.
Conclusions:
- Children operated on for omphalocele or gastroschisis generally experience normal development.
- Early intestinal obstruction is a significant complication, and recurrent abdominal pain warrants further investigation.
- Psychosocial and cosmetic aspects, such as scarring, should be considered in long-term care.
Abstract:
Forty-six children operated on for omphalocele or gastroschisis were followed up at an average age of 8.8 years. A questionnaire form was sent to all patients. Fourteen were called for a medical examination including x-ray and laboratory test. An increased incidence of intestinal obstruction during the first year of life was found. Seven children reported recurrent abdominal pain, but the x-ray film showed no evidence of intestinal obstruction. Some girls were for cosmetic reasons concerned over the absence of their navel or a disfiguring scar on the abdominal wall. Otherwise the children had developed normally. Length and weight were within normal limits and the children had no serious consequences of their severe congenital malformation.
