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What are the associated anomalies?

Gastroschisis is not normally associated with other congenital anomalies. We expect most babies born with this condition to survive normally. In a few babies with Gastroschisis there is a gap in the bowel called an atresia. This may be noticed at the first operation or not be suspected until around four to six weeks of age if the baby is not able to tolerate milk.

X-rays are carried out to confirm whether an atresia is present. If an atresia is confirmed the baby would need a further operation to join the bowel together. However in a small number of babies the Gastroschisis is complicated by further problems with the bowel that are not normally detected before the baby is born. The blood supply to the bowel is sometimes interrupted resulting in parts of the bowel being irreversibly damaged or missing. This is known as short bowel syndrome. It could mean long term hospitalisation and its risks.