Management of Gastroschisis: Timing of Delivery, Antibiotic Usage, and Closure Considerations

The ABSA Outcomes and Evidence-based Practice Committee performed a systematic review on optimal initial management of gastroschisis.

Delivery after 37 weeks is optimal for infants with gastroschisis.

Prophylactic antibiotics covering skin flora are adequate to reduce infection risk until closure in gastroschisis.

Studies support primary fascial repair for gastroschisis as long as hemodynamics and abdominal domain permit.

Sutureless repair for gastroschisis is safe and effective.

Sutureless repair does not delay feeding or increase length of stay in gastroschisis patients.

There is a need for high quality randomized controlled trials to help provide evidence-based care for infants with gastroschisis.