Journal Article

Closing/Closed Gastroschisis (CGS): Antenatal Predictors and Surgical Strategies in Cases of Unique Anatomy from a Case Series

Morozova, Olga, Shumikhin, Vasily, Erokhina, Nadezhda, Vanyan, Liza, Velichko, Ellina, Mokrushina, Olga, Morozov, Dmitrii, Morozova, Mariia, Yagodkina, Maria

2026

Overview

Background: Closing/closed gastroschisis (CGS) accounts for approximately 6% of gastroschisis cases globally. Currently, no consensus exists regarding: antenatal predictors of CGS types, optimal antenatal management (ultrasound screening frequency, indications for early delivery), or standardized surgical strategies tailored to CGS type (staging/timing of procedures, enterostomy necessity/level). Methods: Five neonates with CGS were enrolled and classified according to Perrone’s classification: two patients with type B (40%), one with type C (20%), one with type D (20%), one patient was classified as unclear (20%). Gender distribution—80% female (n = 4), 20% male (n = 1); gestational age—median 35 weeks (IQR 35–38); preterm birth rate—80% (n = 4); birth weight—median 2620 g (IQR 2310–3850). Results: Three patients (60%) developed antenatal intestinal obstruction signs at the third trimester, including two who postnatally demonstrated viable intestinal loops. Two patients (40%) with necrosis of eviscerated intestine demonstrated onset of antenatal intestinal obstruction signs at the second trimester. Patients with CGS type B were managed using a staged surgical approach; patients with types C and D received single-stage repair. Patient with CGS type B achieved complete clinical recovery. Three patients (60%) with CGS types C and D developed short bowel syndrome. Conclusions: The appearance of sonographic signs of intestinal obstruction in the second trimester may be a predictor for a high risk of subsequent significant vascular compromise of the eviscerated bowel, leading to more severe types of CGS (C and D). For patients with CGS type B, a staged surgical approach is advisable to maximize bowel length preservation.

• Publisher: MDPI AG,Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)
• Subject: Abdomen / Classification / closed gastroschisis / closing gastroschisis / complex gastroschisis / Defects / Gastroenterology / Gastrointestinal diseases / Gastrointestinal system / Gastroschisis / Infants (Newborn) / Intestinal obstruction / Ischemia / Medical prognosis / Medical screening / Mortality / Ostomy / Patients / Peritonitis / Prenatal care / short-bowel syndrome / Ultrasonic imaging / vanishing bowel