Silo construction from a sterile adhesive film and polypropylene mesh in the repair of gastroschisis and omphalocele.

A simple technique of constructing a silo for the treatment of gastroschisis (GS) and omphalocele (OMP) is described. A polypropylene mesh covered on both sides with a sterile transparent adhesive film (incise drape) was used; both these items are freely available in the operating room. The resultant silo is sterile, soft, flexible, sturdy, internally smooth, provides a reasonable barrier, and allows enough visibility of the bowel. This silo was used in the treatment of 25 cases of GS and 13 cases of OMP with acceptable results. Survival was better in patients in whom primary closure could be achieved in both OMP and GS. Silo treatment was associated with higher mortality from septic causes.