Gastroshiza is a rare but serious birth defect that affects the abdominal wall of a baby. It occurs when a baby is born with the intestines or other abdominal organs outside of the body, usually through a hole near the belly button. This condition may sound overwhelming to expectant parents, but understanding it better can reduce fear and help families prepare for the best care possible.
In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of gastroshiza, based on the latest available insights in 2025.
What is Gastroshiza?
Gastroshiza is a congenital condition, meaning it develops before birth. During pregnancy, the abdominal wall of a baby normally closes around the organs to protect them. However, with gastroshiza, this wall doesn’t form properly, leaving a gap that allows the intestines — and sometimes other organs like the stomach or liver — to protrude outside the body.
Unlike some similar conditions, such as omphalocele, the organs in gastroshiza are not covered by a protective sac. This exposure makes the intestines more vulnerable to irritation, damage, and infection.
Causes of Gastroshiza
The exact cause of gastroshiza is still not fully understood, but research highlights several potential factors that may increase the risk.
1. Genetic and Environmental Factors
Most cases of gastroshiza are not directly inherited. Instead, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental influences.
2. Maternal Age
Younger mothers, especially those under the age of 20, are statistically more likely to have babies with gastroshiza compared to older mothers. Scientists are still studying why maternal age plays such a role.
3. Lifestyle Factors
Certain lifestyle choices during pregnancy, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, or exposure to harmful substances, may increase the chances of a baby developing gastroshiza.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Some studies suggest that a lack of essential nutrients, like folic acid, could contribute to improper development of the abdominal wall.
5. Medication Use During Pregnancy
Certain medications taken in early pregnancy might affect fetal development and slightly raise the risk of gastroshiza. Expectant mothers are advised to consult their healthcare providers before using any medication.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Because gastroshiza is a structural condition, the signs are clear at birth. However, it can usually be detected long before delivery.
During Pregnancy
- Ultrasound Findings: Most cases are identified during routine ultrasounds in the second trimester. The imaging shows the baby’s intestines floating outside the abdomen.
- Abnormal Blood Tests: In some cases, higher-than-expected levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in maternal blood may signal gastroshiza.
At Birth
- Visible Organs Outside the Body: The intestines and possibly other organs are outside the abdominal wall, without any protective covering.
- Digestive Complications: Some babies may have difficulty absorbing nutrients if their intestines are irritated or damaged.
Possible Related Issues
While many babies with gastroshiza are otherwise healthy, complications can arise. These include restricted growth in the womb, premature birth, or issues with feeding after delivery.
Treatment Options for Gastroshiza
The good news is that with modern medical care, gastroshiza is treatable. Advances in neonatal surgery have greatly improved survival rates and long-term outcomes.
1. Immediate Care After Birth
Once a baby is delivered, the exposed organs are carefully protected to prevent infection and dehydration. Typically, a sterile covering or a plastic bag-like material is placed around the intestines until surgery can be performed.
2. Surgical Repair
Surgery is the primary treatment for gastroshiza, and there are two main approaches depending on the severity of the condition:
Primary Repair
- If the opening in the abdominal wall is small and the organs can be safely placed back into the abdomen, surgeons perform a single operation soon after birth.
- The abdominal wall is closed, and the baby can begin recovery.
Staged Repair (Silo Method)
- If the opening is large or the organs are too swollen to fit back immediately, a silo (a protective pouch) is placed over the exposed organs.
- Over a period of days or weeks, the organs are gradually moved back into the abdomen.
- Once all organs are inside, the abdominal wall is closed in surgery.
3. Supportive Care After Surgery
Recovery doesn’t end with surgery. Babies with gastroshiza often need special care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), including:
- Breathing Support: Some babies may need help with ventilation.
- Nutrition Support: Feeding can be challenging, so intravenous nutrition is often used until the intestines function properly.
- Infection Prevention: Antibiotics may be given to reduce the risk of infection.
Long-Term Outlook
Many children who undergo treatment for gastroshiza grow up healthy with few long-term complications. However, some may face challenges such as:
- Digestive Problems: Issues with absorbing nutrients or frequent reflux.
- Developmental Delays: Usually related to premature birth rather than gastroshiza itself.
- Scar Formation: Visible scarring on the abdomen is common but generally improves over time.
Ongoing follow-up with pediatric specialists ensures that any complications are addressed early.
Coping as a Parent
Hearing that your baby has gastroshiza can be emotionally overwhelming. Parents often struggle with fear, guilt, or confusion. It’s important to remember:
- This condition is not caused by something you did wrong.
- Medical advancements today provide excellent treatment success rates.
- Emotional support from healthcare professionals, counselors, and support groups can make the journey easier.
Conclusion
Gastroshiza is a serious but manageable birth defect. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options helps parents prepare and make informed decisions. Thanks to medical advances, survival rates are higher than ever, and most children treated for gastroshiza can look forward to a healthy, active life.
If you are expecting a baby and have concerns about gastroshiza, consult with your healthcare provider to learn more about available options and resources.
