[Gastroschisis. Analysis of 19 cases (author's transl)].

Since 10 years, 19 cases of gastroschisis have been observed in the surgical paediatric unit of Rouen. 12 children are alive and 7 died. It is possible to classify the lesions of the alimentary tract in four groups of increasing gravity. For the first two groups, survival is probable when the treatment is correct. The third group, including bowel resections and risk of short bowel is more difficult to treat. The last group, with necrosis of the main part of the bowel is uncurable. Surgical treatment of choice is immediate closure with small enlargement of the initial parietat defect. It was possible without complication in 8 cases (9 trials). Delayed closure is now employed when immediate closure is impossible. Post-operative treatment is marked by risks of infectious problems and chronic subocclusion. In this last occurence, reintervention must not be too much delayed. Parenteral feeding, with occasionnal continuous enteral feeding must be sufficient.