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Professional Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

Gastroschisis

Pronunciation: gas-TROS-ki-sis

Congenital abdominal wall defect with bowel herniation requiring immediate surgical closure.

Full Definition

Gastroschisis is a congenital abdominal wall defect characterized by herniation of bowel through a full-thickness defect, typically located to the right of the umbilical cord. Unlike omphalocele, the herniated bowel is not covered by a membrane and is directly exposed to amniotic fluid, leading to inflammatory changes. The condition requires immediate surgical attention after birth, with treatment options including primary closure or staged reduction using a silo. Associated anomalies are rare, but intestinal complications are common.

Usage

Usage note: Distinguish clearly from omphalocele in all documentation.

In Context

  • "The neonate was born with gastroschisis and underwent primary closure on day one of life." — Birth record documentation
  • "Prenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis allows for planned delivery at a tertiary center." — Maternal-fetal medicine consultation

Also known as

abdominal wall defect

Don't confuse with

omphalocele umbilical hernia

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