Closing gastroschisis: The good, the bad, and the not-so ugly
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Read the article on jpedsurg.org ↗Article · Oct 2018 · 1 min read
In brief
In brief
This multi-center retrospective study of 53 cases proposes a new four-type classification system for closing gastroschisis based on bowel viability and atresia presence. The study reports 87% survival—significantly better than historical data—and recommends reducing external bowel unless clearly necrotic, with delayed evaluation to preserve viable tissue.
Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.
Purpose
The diagnosis of "closing" or "closed gastroschisis" is made when bowel is incarcerated within a closed or nearly closed ring of fascia, usually with associated bowel atresia. It has been described as having a high morbidity and mortality.
Methods
A retrospective review of closing gastroschisis cases (n = 53) at six children's hospitals between 2000 and 2016 was completed after IRB approval.
Results
A new classification system for this disease was developed to represent the spectrum of the disease: Type A (15%): ischemic bowel that is constricted at the ring but without atresia; Type B (51%): intestinal atresia with a mass of ischemic, but viable, external bowel (owing to constriction at the ring); Type C (26%): closing ring with nonviable external bowel +/− atresia; and Type D (8%): completely closed defect with either a nubbin of exposed tissue or no external bowel. Overall, 87% of infants survived, and long-term data are provided for each type.
Conclusions
This new classification system better captures the spectrum of disease and describes the expected long-term results for counseling. Unless the external bowel in a closing gastroschisis is clearly necrotic, it should be reduced and evaluated later. Survival was found to be much better than previously reported.
Type of study
Retrospective case series with no comparison group.
Level of evidence
Level IV.