Omphalocele/Gastroschisis

Omphalocele and gastroschisis are the most common types of abdominal wall defects encountered in the neonatal population. Both conditions result in the herniation of abdominal viscera through a defect in the upper or lower abdominal wall. These neonates can present with herniated organs, intestinal obstruction, impaired blood supply to visceral organs, and major fluid deficits. The primary goal for a neonate with an abdominal wall defect is surgical closure. Prior to achieving this goal, maintenance of perfusion of the herniated viscera and minimization of evaporative fluid losses secondary to the exposed surface area are paramount. This chapter discusses the distinctly different etiologies of these conditions, comorbidities, and prognoses, as well as the surgical and anesthetic management strategies and commonly encountered perioperative complications.