Gastroschisis ("belly cleft") is a rare defect in the anterior abdominal wall through which the intestines herniate.
Features of gastroschisis:
(1) There is a defect in the anterior abdominal wall lateral to the umbilicus, usually to the right but occasionally to the left.
(2) The lesion does not involve the umbilical cord, which is intact.
(3) The defect is usually <= 4 cm in diameter.
(4) There is evisceration of the small and large bowel with other intra-abdominal structures infrequently.
(5) There is no covering sac or evidence that a covering sac existed.
(6) There is often malrotation of the bowel and the external bowel may be infarcted or show atresia.
(7) Nonintestinal congenital malformations are uncommon but the infant may show intrauterine growth retardation.
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Specialty: Gastroenterology, Pedatrics
