Paediatric Imaging

Gastroschisis

herniation of intestinal contents through a full thickness defect in the abdominal wall above the umbilicus (see exomphalos). The lesion is usually isolated and not associated with other serious anomalies, although malrotation and intestinal atresias/Meckel's diverticulum are not infrequent. The size of the defect is variable. The diagnosis is often made antenatally by sonography. Gastroschisis can be distinguished from exomphalos by identifying the normal course of the normal umbilical vessels into the umbilicus. The prognosis depends on the size of the defect, the extent of the extra abdominal intestinal contents and their condition, and the ease with which the external viscera can be returned to the peritoneum. Postoperative radiology is required to identify the continuity and function of the bowel in an infant who develops distension when attempts are made to feed it. Prolonged ileus is common.

HC