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The survivors of gastroschisis
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, United Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
Insights
Most gastroschisis survivors experience good health and normal growth. However, some may require further surgery for complications like bowel obstruction, and umbilical absence can cause distress.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Congenital Anomalies
Background:
- Gastroschisis is a congenital defect where the intestines exit the body through an abdominal wall opening.
- Long-term outcomes for gastroschisis survivors are important for understanding lifelong health impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term morbidity and quality of life in individuals who survived gastroschisis.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of gastroschisis survivors (born 1972-1984, survived >1 year) was identified.
- Survivors were surveyed regarding health, growth, abdominal issues, cosmetic concerns, education, employment, and fertility.
Main Results:
- Of 23 respondents (median age 16), 96% reported good health and normal growth.
- 35% underwent further surgery for gastroschisis-related issues, including adhesive small bowel obstruction.
- 57% experienced childhood distress due to absence of the umbilicus.
Conclusions:
- Gastroschisis survivors generally achieve good health and growth.
- Adhesive small bowel obstruction is a rare but possible late complication.
- Preserving the umbilicus during surgical repair is recommended to mitigate cosmetic distress.
Aims:
To assess the long term morbidity and quality of life in survivors of gastroschisis.
Design:
All babies born with gastroschisis between 1972 and 1984 and who survived more than one year were identified. Those who could be traced were questioned about their general health, growth, abdominal symptoms, cosmetic concerns, education, employment, and fertility.
Results:
Of the 35 patients, two have died, seven could not be traced, and three declined to be interviewed. Twenty three subjects (70% of survivors) with a median age of 16 years (range 12-23 years) responded. Twenty two (96%) were in good health and overall growth was within normal limits. Eight subjects (35%) have had further surgery related to gastroschisis, including two for adhesive small bowel obstruction and three for scar complications. In 13 (57%), absence of an umbilicus caused distress during childhood.
Conclusion:
Most gastroschisis survivors can eventually expect normal growth and good health. Adhesive bowel obstruction is an uncommon, but potentially late, complication. The umbilicus should be conserved during gastroschisis repair.