Gastroschisis

Description

A condition in which a newborn's intestines stick out of the belly at birth.

Overview

Gastroschisis is a condition in which a newborn's intestines stick out of the belly, also called the abdomen, at birth. The condition is a type of hernia.

Symptoms

In gastroschisis, a baby has a hole in the abdominal wall beside the belly button. The baby's intestines may stick out of this opening in the belly. Sometimes other organs, such as the stomach and liver, also may stick out.

Treatments

Surgery is done to repair the hole, if possible, and move the intestines to the proper place.