Gastroschisis

📋Overview

Gastroschisis is a birth defect characterized by a hole in the abdominal wall, typically located to the right of the umbilical cord. This opening allows the intestines, and occasionally other organs, to exit the abdominal cavity and develop in the surrounding amniotic fluid.

This condition is clinically distinct from other abdominal wall defects because the protruding organs are not enclosed within a protective membrane or sac. Because the bowel is not covered, it may become irritated or swollen due to direct contact with amniotic fluid.