Gastroschisis

Definition:

A herniation of the abdominal contents through a defect in the abdominal wall.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

A gastroschisis is similar to an omphalocele in appearance. The two conditions differ in that an omphalocele is a herniation of the abdominal contents through the umbilical cord and is covered with peritoneum (the abdominal membrane); while a gastroschisis is a herniation through the abdominal wall (usually near the cord) but not involving the cord and the herniation is not covered with peritoneum. As in omphalocele, the abdominal cavity may be small and replacement of the bowel into the cavity may require several weeks in which the abdominal cavity is gently stretched to accommodate the mass.