WOFAPS 2025 8th World Congress of Pediatric Surgery

Nabila Talat, Azwa Janjua, Aziz Ahmed Chattha, Sadaf Daud, Muhammad Zubair Shoukat, Fouzia Khalil

University of child health sciences, The Childrens Hospital, Lahore

Introduction:

Gastroschisis is a congenital abdominal wall defect, characterized by herniation of intra-abdominal structures through an abdominal wall defect with most cases occurring to the right of the umbilical cord. Left-sided gastroschisis is exceptionally rare with only 31 cases reported till date and sparse literature on its management and outcomes. This case highlights an atypical presentation managed with primary closure

Case presentation:

A full-term neonate presented at 12 hours of life with abdominal contents outside the abdominal wall. The herniated bowel showed no signs of ischemia or atresia. Primary reduction was achieved, and the abdominal wall was closed surgically without requiring a silo. Postoperatively, patient developed nosocomial chest infection. enteral feeds were initiated by day 3, but baby’s respiratory infection worsened. Unfortunately, patient could not overcome the sepsis and expired on 5th post operative day

Conclusion:

Left sided gastroschisis can present as an isolated congenital anomaly. Associated anomalies like situs inversus and cardiac defects should be looked for. Management protocol involves primary closure or staged reduction whatever is safe for that index child.