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Musculoskeletal involvement in children with gastroschisis and omphalocele
1Section of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor.
Insights
Children with gastroschisis and omphalocele frequently experience musculoskeletal issues, including limb and spinal deformities, and osteopenia. These congenital conditions require careful monitoring for associated skeletal complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Orthopedics
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Gastroschisis and omphalocele are congenital abdominal wall defects with significant implications for infant health.
- Musculoskeletal complications are recognized but not fully characterized in these patient populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the incidence and types of musculoskeletal problems in children diagnosed with gastroschisis or omphalocele.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for 58 children with gastroschisis and 8 children with omphalocele.
- Analysis of documented musculoskeletal issues, including deformities and bone density abnormalities.
Main Results:
- 14 musculoskeletal problems were identified in 11 children (20.7% of the total cohort).
- Common issues included limb deformities (6), spinal deformities (4), and osteopenia (3), with one case of pathological fractures.
- Arthrogrypotic conditions accounted for approximately one-third of the identified problems.
Conclusions:
- Children with gastroschisis and omphalocele have a notable prevalence of musculoskeletal abnormalities.
- Early identification and management of these skeletal issues are crucial for optimal patient outcomes.
Abstract:
A review of 58 children with gastroschisis and 8 children with omphalocele showed 14 musculoskeletal problems in 11 children. These problems consisted of limb deformities in 6 children, spinal deformities in 4 children, and osteopenia in 3 children, with 1 of the osteopenic children developing pathological fractures. About one third (5/14) of the problems were arthrogrypotic in nature. The remainder were mild digital deformities, developmental or spondylodysplastic scolioses, and, rarely, congenital spinal deformities.