Sonographic diagnosis of fetal gastroschisis in utero

Background: This study was conducted to investigate the clinical significance of the detection by prenatal ultrasonography of fetal gastroschisis. Materials and Methods: Fifteen cases of fetal gastroschisis diagnosed in utero by antenatal ultrasound from January 1991 to January 1999 were retrospectively analyzed. Results: The earliest prenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis in our series was made at 14 weeks of gestation. Seven cases (47%) were detected before 22 weeks. The average maternal age was 25 years, which was lower than the maternal age of the normal group. After detection and consultation, 10 cases (67%) were selected to continue their pregnancies. All 10 cases were delivered at term and surgical corrections made after birth by a well-prepared perinatal team of fetologists, obstetricians, neonatologists and pediatric surgeons. Conclusion: Antenatal ultrasound scanning can facilitate early diagnosis, appropriate decision-making and suitable management for fetal gastroschisis. The results of this series suggest that routine screening for gastroschisis by prenatal ultrasound may be warranted.