Professional
Technical
IVT
gastroschisis
Pronunciation: gas-TROS-ki-sis
Congenital abdominal wall defect resulting in bowel herniation outside the peritoneal cavity.
Full Definition
A full-thickness congenital abdominal wall defect, typically located to the right of the umbilicus, through which abdominal contents herniate without a covering sac. Unlike omphalocele, the herniated bowel is exposed to amniotic fluid, leading to inflammatory changes and potential complications. Surgical repair involves primary closure when possible or staged reduction using a silo when the defect is large. The condition requires immediate postnatal surgical intervention and careful fluid management due to increased insensible losses.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from omphalocele in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The gastroschisis repair was complicated by the matted, thickened bowel loops requiring extensive adhesiolysis." — operative report
- "Prenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis allows for coordinated delivery planning and immediate postnatal surgical consultation." — medical journal
Also known as
abdominal wall defect
Don't confuse with
omphalocele
umbilical hernia