How is gastroschisis treated at the Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment?
The condition of the fetus is carefully monitored to determine the best time for delivery. After delivery, surgical correction of gastroschisis involves the return of any exposed bowel to the abdominal cavity and subsequent closure of the abdominal wall. This can be accomplished in one of two ways: • Primary gastroschisis repair: The baby undergoes surgical repair immediately after birth. The bowel is returned to the abdominal cavity, and the abdominal wall is closed during one procedure. This is the preferred method of repair because it is associated with a reduced risk of infection and fluid loss. • Staged gastroschisis repair: Prolonged exposure to irritating amniotic fluid or trauma during birth may inflame or stretch the bowel. If so, the bowel is covered by a sheet of protective material and gradually returns to the abdominal cavity by gravity. Then, the abdomen is closed surgically. The method chosen depends upon the condition of the bowel after birth. When the infant who has un
