Prior to Procedure

Supportive steps will be taken after birth and before the surgery including:

• Wrapping the exposed tissue in a plastic device to protect the organs
• IV fluids and nutrition
• Nasogastric tube to help reduce the size of the exposed tissue

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 gastroschisis. General steps may include:

• Opening a larger hole in the abdomen to examine the area and make room for the exposed tissue.
• Removing any damaged intestine. If parts of the intestine are removed the healthy ends will be connected together.
• Placing organs and other exposed tissue 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 in at first. Some intestine may be left outside of the abdomen and covered in a protective plastic device. The device will gradually push the intestines back into the abdomen as the swelling goes down or the abdominal cavity enlarges. 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.