Abstract
Purpose A sutureless gastroschisis repair allows for spontaneous closure of abdominal wall
defect. We report our experience focusing on final esthetic outcome.
Methods Retrospective data were collected from medical reports of all neonates with gastroschisis
operated from January 2009 to December 2013. Variables recorded included patients
descriptors, management modality, and cosmetic outcome.
Results From the overall group of 38 patients with gastroschisis, 20 infants treated with
sutureless closure were included in this study. In the analyzed cohort, 17 (85%) children
were operated under general anesthesia and 3 (15%) without intubation. Primary reduction
was possible in 15 (75%) cases, and in 5 (25%) we used silo. There were two (10%)
deaths in late postoperative course due to septic complications. Three (15%) infants
needed laparotomy because of adhesions and bowel obstruction. There were no infectious
complications of the wound. Only 55% (10/18) of children presented umbilical hernia
prior to discharge. Only two (11%) children with umbilical hernia were operated until
now. Almost all patients (16/18; 89%) present excellent final cosmetic result without
scar formation.
Conclusion Sutureless closure of uncomplicated gastroschisis is a safe technique that reduces
need of intubation and provides excellent cosmetic results.
Keywords
gastroschisis - abdominal defect - sutureless closure - cosmetic results
