Gastroschisis: A Birth Defect Involving the Abdominal Wall

Gastroschisis: A Comprehensive Guide to Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Gastroschisis is a rare birth defect that occurs during pregnancy when the abdominal wall of the fetus fails to close completely. This results in the intestines and other abdominal organs protruding through a defect in the abdominal wall. Gastroschisis is a serious condition that can lead to complications such as infection, dehydration, and bowel obstruction.

Causes of Gastroschisis

The exact cause of gastroschisis is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some risk factors for gastroschisis include:

• Maternal age: The risk of gastroschisis increases with maternal age.
• Multiple pregnancies: The risk of gastroschisis is higher in multiple pregnancies.
• Certain medications: Taking certain medications during pregnancy, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, has been linked to an increased risk of gastroschisis.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as pesticides or herbicides, has been linked to an increased risk of gastroschisis.

Symptoms of Gastroschisis

The most common symptom of gastroschisis is the presence of a defect in the abdominal wall and protruding intestines. Other symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Feeding difficulties
• Jaundice
• Lethargy
• Vomiting

Diagnosis of Gastroschisis

Gastroschisis is usually diagnosed before birth during a routine ultrasound. The ultrasound will show the defect in the abdominal wall and the protruding intestines. Other tests that may be used to diagnose gastroschisis include:

• Amniocentesis: This test involves taking a sample of amniotic fluid to check for genetic abnormalities.
• Chorionic villus sampling (CVS): This test involves taking a sample of tissue from the placenta to check for genetic abnormalities.

Treatment of Gastroschisis

The treatment for gastroschisis involves surgery to repair the defect in the abdominal wall and place the intestines back inside the abdomen. The surgery is usually performed shortly after birth.

In some cases, the intestines may be too damaged to be repaired immediately. In these cases, a temporary covering will be placed over the intestines to protect them until they can be repaired.

After surgery, the baby will be monitored closely for complications, such as infection, dehydration, and bowel obstruction. The baby may also need to be fed through a feeding tube until the intestines are fully healed.

Prognosis for Gastroschisis

The prognosis for gastroschisis depends on the severity of the defect and the presence of any complications. Most babies with gastroschisis are able to live normal, healthy lives. However, some babies may have long-term problems, such as bowel obstruction or developmental delays.

Prevention of Gastroschisis

There is no way to prevent gastroschisis completely. However, there are some things that you can do to reduce the risk, such as:

• Taking prenatal vitamins: Taking prenatal vitamins, especially folic acid, can help to reduce the risk of birth defects.
• Avoiding certain medications: Avoid taking certain medications during pregnancy, such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
• Reducing exposure to environmental toxins: Avoid exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as pesticides or herbicides.

Conclusion

Gastroschisis is a serious birth defect that can lead to complications such as infection, dehydration, and bowel obstruction. The treatment for gastroschisis involves surgery to repair the defect in the abdominal wall and place the intestines back inside the abdomen. The prognosis for gastroschisis depends on the severity of the defect and the presence of any complications. Most babies with gastroschisis are able to live normal, healthy lives. However, some babies may have long-term problems, such as bowel obstruction or developmental delays.