About Gastroschisis

What is Gastroschisis?

Gastroschisis is a birth defect in which the baby's intestines are outside of the body, usually in a sac on the baby's right side. It is caused by a hole in the abdominal wall that does not close properly during pregnancy. Treatment typically involves placing the intestines back into the abdominal cavity and closing the hole.

What are the symptoms of Gastroschisis?

The most common symptom of gastroschisis is a visible bulge in the baby’s abdomen. This bulge is usually located to the right of the umbilical cord and may contain some of the baby’s intestines. Other symptoms may include:

• Abdominal swelling

• Abnormal positioning of the umbilical cord

• Abnormal positioning of the baby’s organs

• Abnormal positioning of the baby’s intestines

• Abnormal positioning of the baby’s stomach

• Abnormal positioning of the baby’s liver

• Abnormal positioning of the baby’s gallbladder

• Abnormal positioning of the baby’s pancreas

• Abnormal positioning of the baby’s spleen

What are the causes of Gastroschisis?

The exact cause of gastroschisis is unknown. It is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Possible causes include:

• Genetic factors: Gastroschisis is more common in families with a history of the condition.

• Environmental factors: Exposure to certain toxins or medications during pregnancy may increase the risk of gastroschisis.

• Maternal health: Women who smoke, use drugs, or have certain medical conditions may be more likely to have a baby with gastroschisis.

What are the treatments for Gastroschisis?

The treatment for gastroschisis depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, the baby may be monitored in the womb until delivery. In more severe cases, the baby may need to be delivered early and the abdominal wall defect may need to be surgically closed shortly after birth. In some cases, the baby may need to be placed in a special bag to protect the exposed organs until the defect can be closed. After the defect is closed, the baby may need to stay in the hospital for a few weeks to monitor for any complications. In some cases, the baby may need to receive additional treatments such as antibiotics, nutrition, and other medications.

What are the risk factors for Gastroschisis?

1. Young maternal age (under 20 years old)
2. Low maternal body mass index (BMI)
3. Maternal smoking
4. Maternal alcohol consumption
5. Maternal use of certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
6. Maternal diabetes
7. Maternal infection
8. Maternal exposure to environmental toxins
9. Maternal history of a previous child with gastroschisis
10. Family history of gastroschisis

Is there a cure/medications for Gastroschisis?

Yes, there is a cure for gastroschisis. Treatment typically involves surgery to close the abdominal wall defect and to place the organs back into the abdominal cavity. Depending on the severity of the condition, medications may be prescribed to help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection.