Gastroschisis in newborns: A brief guide for every parent

Out of most birth defects that one can see in the newborns, gastroschisis is quite severe and requires immediate attention from the pediatric surgery doctor. If not treated at the correct time, the baby will have difficulty in survival. It is a rare medical condition where the intestines protrude out of the abdominal cavity through a small hole near the belly button. Surgery is the only way to treat this condition and cure the newborns. However, parents often face a dilemmatic situation since the disease itself is frightening and the mortality rate is quite high. The surgery is also complicated, which is why knowing more about gastroschisis is essential. 

What causes gastroschisis in newborns?

Gastroschisis is a congenital defect in newborns which is mainly caused when the abdominal wall fails to develop properly and there is an opening near the belly button. As a result, the intestines protrude out through the opening. Truth be told, the exact cause of this disease is not yet known, which is why most gynecologists and pediatricians advise their patients to be cautious during the pregnancy. In usual cases, the condition can be detected through an ultrasonography or other advanced radiological examinations during the third trimester. But in cases where it remains undetected, doctors formulate the treatment plan post birth. 

What is the treatment approach for gastroschisis?

Most pediatric surgeons plan the treatment according to the complexity level of gastroschisis in the newborn. Two types of surgery options are available, namely primary and staged surgery. 

If the condition is minimal in terms of complexity and severity, the pediatric surgeon will conduct a primary surgery to rectify the situation by pushing in the protruded organs and sealing the opening in the abdominal wall. 

However, in cases where the complexity is pretty severe, the surgeon will perform a staged surgery where the organs are correctly positioned in different phases. It is done to ensure the newborn baby won’t suffer from excessive surgical trauma.

Conclusion 

To get the best gastroschisis treatment for your child, you need to be extra cautious in choosing the pediatric surgeon. After all, experience triumphs over every other variable and with appropriate knowledge and hands-on expertise gained from different surgeries can a doctor offer maximum assurance of a successful treatment.

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