Medium and long-term outcomes of gastroschisis

Abstract

As survival of gastroschisis patients has improved significantly, it has become apparent that longitudinal follow up strategies need to be developed. Problems concerning patients with gastroschisis are usually associated with gastrointestinal morbidity, but there is mounting evidence that also neurodevelopmental, cognitive, behavioral and late-onset auditory sequelae exist. The presence of associated anomalies, as well as complex features (bowel atresia, necrosis, volvulus, perforation) increase morbidity and impact long-term outcomes. Multidisciplinary follow-up is required, and the key elements of such follow-up are presented here.

Keywords: Follow-up; Gastroschisis; Long-term; Multidisciplinary; Outcomes.