Prior to Procedure

If the gastroschisis is found before birth, a birth plan will be made to decrease the risk of further damage.

After birth, supportive steps before the surgery may include:

• The sac will be protected in a sterile dressing
• If the sac ruptures, the exposed tissue will be wrapped in a plastic device to protect the organs
• IV fluids and nutrition
• Nasogastric tube to help reduce the size of the exposed tissue by removing air from the stomach and intestines
• Watching for complications, such as shock, heat loss, dehydration, or bowel obstruction

Anesthesia

General anesthesia is used. The baby will be asleep during the procedure.

Description of the Procedure

The extent of the surgery depends on the size of the omphalocele. When possible, organs and other exposed tissue are placed back into their proper place. The abdominal wall is repaired and stitched.

Intestines may be swollen and difficult to place back into the abdominal cavity or there may not be enough room to fit them all initially. The sac will be covered in a mesh device that will support the structures. Slow tightening of the device will allow the intestines to be gradually pushed back into the abdomen as the abdominal skin grows enough to cover the area. Later surgeries will complete the repairs and close the skin.

Immediately After Procedure

The baby will be taken to a recovery room and monitored.

How Long Will It Take?

It depends on how much repair is needed.

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia prevents pain during surgery. Additional medication will be given to relieve pain or soreness during recovery.

Average Hospital Stay

The length of stay depends on the extent of the repair needed. Proper feeding, weight gain, and bowel function are needed before the baby can go home. This may take several days or weeks.

Post-procedure Care

At the Hospital

A neonatal intensive care unit will monitor blood pressure, pulse, and breathing. Recovery may also include:

• Pain medications
• Antibiotics to prevent infection
• IV fluids and nutritional support
• Oxygen therapy
• Mechanical ventilation

The hospital staff will take steps to reduce the chance of infection such as:

• Washing their hands
• Wearing gloves or masks
• Keeping your baby’s incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your baby’s chances of infection such as:

• Washing your hands often and reminding visitors and healthcare providers to do the same
• Reminding their healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks
• Not allowing others to touch your baby’s incisions

At Home

Recovery may take some time and require a special diet. The doctor will monitor the baby’s growth and overall health to make sure the baby is getting adequate nutrition.