gastroschisis
Pronunciation: gas-TROS-ki-sis
Congenital abdominal wall defect where intestines protrude through opening beside the umbilicus. Requires immediate surgical intervention in neonates.
Full Definition
Gastroschisis is a congenital abdominal wall defect characterized by herniation of abdominal contents through a full-thickness defect in the abdominal wall, typically located to the right of the umbilicus. Unlike omphalocele, the herniated organs are not covered by a protective membrane and are directly exposed to amniotic fluid in utero. The condition affects approximately 1 in 4,000 births and requires immediate surgical repair after birth. Management involves protecting the exposed bowel, maintaining temperature and fluid balance, and staged surgical closure if primary repair is not possible due to the size of the defect or bowel edema.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from omphalocele, which has a covering membrane.
In Context
- "The neonate was born with gastroschisis and underwent primary fascial closure on day of life one." — Pediatric surgery operative report
- "Gastroschisis repair may require staged closure using a silo if primary repair results in excessive abdominal tension." — Neonatal surgery textbook