Clinical care outcomes in abdominal wall defects

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Abdominal wall defects comprising both gastroschisis and omphalocele remain a source of significant morbidity and mortality, despite the advances in neonatal and pediatric surgical care. Survival has improved over the past few decades, especially with parenteral nutrition and surgical repair. Yet, still, many questions remain regarding the outcome of these anomalies. RECENT FINDINGS: Outcomes of abdominal wall defects have been discussed more often in the recent publications, with analysis of databases and evaluation of prenatal series. There have been a number of new prenatal interventions in gastroschisis, and a better understanding of gestational outcomes from omphalocele. Papers have discussed the optimal surgical management of these defects as well. SUMMARY: This review helps to bring together the most recent findings regarding outcomes and interventions for abdominal wall defects. It also illustrates the pressing need for a large prospective database to better understand these anomalies and provide better care.