gastroschisis
Pronunciation: gas-TROSS-ki-sis
A congenital abdominal wall defect resulting in herniation of intestines outside the abdominal cavity.
Full Definition
Gastroschisis is a congenital anomaly characterized by a paraumbilical abdominal wall defect, typically to the right of the umbilical cord insertion, through which bowel herniates without a covering membrane. Unlike omphalocele, the defect does not involve the umbilical cord and there is no peritoneal sac covering the exposed organs. Immediate management includes covering the exposed bowel with moist gauze, gastric decompression, fluid resuscitation, and surgical consultation for staged or primary closure depending on the size of the defect.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from omphalocele; no membrane covering in gastroschisis.
In Context
- "The newborn was born with gastroschisis requiring immediate covering of exposed bowel and surgical consultation." — Birth documentation
- "Serial examinations showed no evidence of bowel compromise in the infant with gastroschisis awaiting staged closure." — Surgical consultation note