The protrusion of the intestines out of the abdomen, usually through the opening on the right side of the baby cord, is called GASTROCHISIS (Gastroschisis) (cleft abdomen). Gastroschisis is rarely seen in 1-2 out of 10 thousand pregnancies. It is seen in babies of mothers who smoke, use alcohol and are younger than 20 years old. Other causes are currently unknown
This anomaly is not related to genes. The intestines float in the amniotic fluid, which has a very irritating effect on the intestines. This situation causes knots in the intestines or the inability of a part of the intestines to develop, shortening, sticking to each other and thickening and reducing the ability to move.
Thanks to today’s supportive treatment facilities and surgical techniques, these children’s chances of survival are very high. A very low rate of familial tendency can be seen.
Diagnosis can be made by Ultrasound done during pregnancy. Therefore, prenatal ultrasound is of great importance.
If no intervention is made for babies born with this diagnosis, death will result due to intense heat and fluid loss from the intestines. In this case, cesarean delivery is preferred for babies. Being in a center where the prenatal surgery environment can be provided (transferring the baby to the appropriate center before birth) is an important step in solving the problems.
Omphalocele
Unlike gastroschisis, in omphalocele, the baby’s intestines are inside a sac consisting of the peritoneum, but outside the abdomen. It occurs as a result of their inability to unite in the middle due to the poor development of the abdominal muscles. Concomitant anomalies, which are rarely seen in gastroschisis, may be much more common in infants with omphalocele. For example; such as genetic problems, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, heart anomalies, mongolism.
In omphalocele, which can be in different sizes (small, medium, large), treatment begins after the baby is born and surgery(s) is required.
Provided that it is at the appropriate time before birth, all anomalies are determined after examinations and analyzes, and information is obtained about the termination or continuation of the pregnancy by interviewing the family.
