- A definitive cause for gastroschisis has not been found, but certain risk factors have been identified. Teenagers have an increased risk of giving birth to a baby with gastroschisis, according to the CDC, and the risk is highest for white teenagers. CDC research shows that a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet prior to conception may also increase the risk.
- Increased levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) during pregnancy may be a sign of gastroschisis, according to Cincinnati Children's Hospital. The condition may be diagnosed when the intestines are seen outside of the body during a prenatal ultrasound. Upon delivery, the infant's intestines can be seen protruding out of a hole in the abdominal wall (usually to the right of the umbilical cord). Other organs, such as the liver, may also be involved.
- Surgery is required to repair gastroschisis. About two-thirds of babies only need one surgery, according to Cincinnati Children's Hospital. In severe cases, the repair may be done in several steps. A pouch may be placed over the exposed intestines and gradually tightened until the organs are inside the body and the hole can be surgically closed. Intravenous nutrition, antibiotics and the use of a ventilator may also be necessary treatments.
- Babies with gastroschisis may have breathing problems due to misplaced organs, according to the CDC. They may also have problems with digestion and absorbing nutrients. The bowel may be irritated or damaged before birth, due to exposure to amniotic fluid and decreased blood flow. Death of the bowel can sometimes occur, according to the CDC.
- Recovery is likely for most babies, according to the Cincinnati Children's Hospital. Some babies with bowel damage may develop short bowel syndrome (also called short gut syndrome), which causes diarrhea, vitamin deficiencies and slow weight gain. This condition may require management with medications, a special diet and/or intravenous nutrition, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
previous post