Gastroschisis, low maternal age, and fetal morbidity outcomes

Update from a cohort study for birth defects in Hunan Province, China, 2010-2020

To define the relationship between sex, residence, maternal age, and a broad range of birth defects by conducting a comprehensive cross-analysis based on up-to-date data. Data were obtained from the Birth Defects Surveillance System in Hunan Province, China, 2010-2020. Prevalences of birth defects (number of cases per 10,000 fetuses (births and deaths at 28 weeks of gestation and beyond)) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by sex, residence, maternal age, year, and 23 specific defects. Cross-analysis of sex, residence, and maternal age was conducted, and crude odds ratios (ORs) were calculated to examine the association of each maternal characteristic with birth defects. A total of 1,619,376 fetuses and 30,596 birth defects were identified. The prevalence of birth defects was 188.94/10,000 (95% CI 186.82-191.05). Birth defects were more frequent in males than females (210.46 vs. 163.03/10,000, OR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.27-1.33), in urban areas than in rural areas (223.61 vs. 162.90/10,000, OR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.35-1.41), and in mothers ≥ 35 than mothers 25-29 (206.35 vs. 187.79/10,000, OR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.06-1.14). Cross-analysis showed that the prevalence of birth defects was higher in urban females than in rural males (194.53 vs. 182.25/10,000), the difference in prevalence between males and females was more significant for maternal age < 20 compared to other age groups (OR = 1.64, 95% CI 1.37-1.95), and the prevalence difference between urban and rural areas is more significant for maternal age 25-34 compared to other age groups (OR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.43-1.57). Cleft palates were more frequent in males, and nine specific defects were more frequent in females. Five specific defects were more frequent in rural areas, and eight were more frequent in urban areas. Compared to mothers 25-29, five specific defects were more frequent in mothers < 20, seven specific defects were more frequent in mothers 20-24, two specific defects were more frequent in mothers 30-34, and ten specific defects were more frequent in mothers ≥ 35. Our data indicate that sex, residence, and maternal age differences in the prevalences of birth defects and most specific defects are common. We have found some new epidemiological characteristics of birth defects using cross-analysis, such as residence is the determining factor for the prevalence of birth defects, the difference in prevalence between males and females was more significant for maternal age < 20 compared to other age groups, the prevalence difference between urban and rural areas is more significant for maternal age 25-34 compared to other age groups. And differences in the epidemiological characteristics of some specific defects from previous studies. Future studies should examine mechanisms. Our findings contributed to clinical counseling and advancing research on the risk factors for birth defects.

Elective Delivery versus Expectant Management for Gastroschisis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

 The optimal timing of delivery for pregnancies complicated by prenatally diagnosed gastroschisis remains controversial. Therefore, the aim of this study was to find whether elective or expectant delivery is associated with improved neonatal outcome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched for studies up to 2021 that reported timing of delivery for prenatally diagnosed gastroschisis. A systematic review and meta-analysis were then performed in group 1: moderately preterm (gestational age [GA]: 34-35 weeks) elective delivery versus expectant management after GA 34-35 weeks; and group 2: near-term (GA: 36-37 weeks) elective delivery versus expectant management after GA 36-37 weeks. The following clinical outcomes were evaluated: length of stay (LOS), total parenteral nutrition (TPN) days, bowel morbidity (atresia, perforation, and volvulus), sepsis, time of first feeding, short gut syndrome and respirator days, and mortality.

RESULTS

 Two randomized controlled trials (RCT)s and eight retrospective cohort studies were included, comprising 629 participants. Moderately preterm elective delivery failed to improve clinical outcomes. However, near-term elective delivery significantly reduced bowel morbidity (7.4 vs. 15.4%, relative risk = 0.37; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.18, 0.74; p = 0.005; I2 = 0%) and TPN days (mean difference =-13.44 days; 95% CI: -26.68, -0.20; p = 0.05; I2 = 45%) compared to expectant delivery. The mean LOS was 39.2 days after near-term delivery and 48.7 days in the expectant group (p = 0.06).

CONCLUSION

 Based on the data analyzed, near-term elective delivery (GA 36-37 weeks) appears to be the optimal timing for delivery of pregnancies complicated by gastroschisis as it is associated with less bowel morbidity and shorter TPN days. However, more RCTs are necessary to better validate these findings.

Major birth defects in the Brazilian side of the triple border: a population-based cross-sectional study

Background

Major birth defects increase the risk of fetal death and pediatric hospitalization, which also impact on healthcare costs. Sociodemographic factors can drastically affect reproductive health and be used to discriminate the exposure to hidden risk factors. Foz do Iguassu is a Brazilian city located in the triple-border region of Brazil / Paraguay / Argentina with high rates of birth defects. However no study aimed to verify factors associated with this incidence or preventive care is reported. The current work investigated the prevalence of major birth defects and its association with maternal sociodemographic factors in Foz do Iguassu.

Methods

In this population-based cross-sectional study we used data of all live births occurred in Foz do Iguassu from 2012 to 2017. The associated sociodemographic variables such as maternal age, maternal education, maternal race, country of residence, maternal parity and onset of prenatal care were analyzed. Each major birth defect was described according to absolute and relative frequencies, Kruskal-Wallis and logistic regression models were used to evaluate variables associated with selected birth defects.

Results

The most prevalent major birth defects were Cleft Lip and/or Palate (9.5/10,000), gastroschisis (6.93/10,000), spina bifida (5.53/10,000), hydrocephalus (5.53/10,000), hypospadias (4.55/10,000), Down syndrome (4.23/10,000), anencephaly (2.93/10,000), anorectal atresia / stenosis (1.95/10,000), undetermined sex (1.95/10,000), esophageal atresia / stenosis with or without fistula (1.63/10,000) and limb reduction defects (1.30/10,000). Maternal age was associated with gastroschisis and Down syndrome. Only maternal education up to 7 years was statistically associated with major birth defects considering all other sociodemographic variables.

Conclusion

Cleft Lip and/or Palate and Gastroschisis prevalence were higher than those found in the literature. This findings may suggest a distinct epidemiological behavior regarding major birth defects in the region. The work opens new perspectives for birth defects risk factors in the triple-border.

[Pregnancy and delivery of teenagers: Is the obstetrical prognosis worst between 13-15years old?]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prognosis of pregnancy and delivery of 13-15years old patients compared to teenagers aged of 16-17.

METHODS

Single-center retrospective study of a continuous series of 13-15 teenagers followed in a public maternity between 1996 and 2012 compared to a series of patients aged of 16-17 matched on the day of the delivery (two controls for a case).

RESULTS

Seventy-three teens 13-15 were followed during the study period, and 146 adolescents aged 16-17 were included and matched. The two groups did not differ regarding size, weight or medical history. Younger patients were more often educated than older ones (46.6 vs 27.4%, P<0.01). The incidence of congenital malformations was high but substantially identical in the two groups (9.6 vs 11.0%, NS), as well as prematurity concerned that almost one third of patients (27.4 vs 30.1%, NS). The Caesarean section rate was low (11.0 vs 10.3%, NS). The frequency of birth weight below the 10th percentile did not differ between groups (15.1 vs 19.9%, NS).

CONCLUSION

Teenage girls of 13-15years old have high perinatal risk (prematurity, congenital malformation), and frequently delivery vaginally. These risks do not seem superior to those of adolescent girls aged of 16-17years old.

The epidemiology, prevalence and hospital outcomes of infants with gastroschisis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate recent trends in prevalence of gastroschisis among infants admitted for neonatal intensive care in the United States.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of a de-identified patient data. The current study extends our observations through the end of 2007 to 2015.

RESULTS

During the study period (1 January 1997 to 12 December 2015), there were 1 158 755 total discharges; 6023 (5.2/1000) had gastroschisis and 1885 (1.6/1000) had an omphalocele. Between 1997 and 2008, the reported rate of gastroschisis increased from 2.9 to 6.4/1000 discharges. From 2008 to 2011, the values have slowly decreased from 6.4 to 4.7/1000 discharges and since 2011 have been stable. The largest drop in the prevalence was in mothers who were <20 years old. In contrast, the reported rate of omphalocele was stable at 1 to 2/1000 discharges.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of gastroschisis increased from 1997 to 2008, and then declined thereafter.

Surgical Treatment Results In Gastroschisis Based On Preterm Delivery Within The 34th Week Of Gestation By Caesarean Section

was to assess the value of the today’s appropriate approach, preterm delivery in the 34th week of gestation by Caesarean section and subsequent surgical intervention at the perinatal center, in daily practice of pediatric surgery with regard to early postoperative and mid-term outcome.

Over the time period of 9 years, all consecutive cases diagnosed with gastroschisis at the perinatal center, University Hospital of Magdeburg, were born by Caesarean section within the 34th week of gestation followed by surgical intervention. The registered data were compared with those published by other groups.

Overall, there were 19 cases through the investigation period from 01/01/2006 to 12/31/2014. The mean duration of gestation was 237.9 days. The mean birth weight was 2,276 g. In all individuals, a primary closure with no artificial material was achieved. The duration of postoperative artificial respiration was 2.3 days. Oral uptake could be initiated on the 10

The data indicate that in case of gastroschisis, primary closure can be more frequently achieved by section within the 34

Gastroschisis--what should be told to parents?

Gastroschisis is a common congenital abdominal wall defect. It is almost always diagnosed prenatally thanks to routine maternal serum screening and ultrasound screening programs. In the majority of cases, the condition is isolated (i.e. not associated with chromosomal or other anatomical anomalies). Prenatal diagnosis allows for planning the timing, mode and location of delivery. Controversies persist concerning the optimal antenatal monitoring strategy. Compelling evidence supports elective delivery at 37  weeks' gestation in a tertiary pediatric center. Cesarean section should be reserved for routine obstetrical indications. Prognosis of infants with gastroschisis is primarily determined by the degree of bowel injury, which is difficult to assess antenatally. Prenatal counseling usually addresses gastroschisis issues. However, parental concerns are mainly focused on long-term postnatal outcomes including gastrointestinal function and neurodevelopment. Although infants born with gastroschisis often endure a difficult neonatal course, they experience few long-term complications. This manuscript, which is structured around common parental questions and concerns, reviews the evidence pertaining to the antenatal, neonatal and long-term implications of a fetal gastroschisis diagnosis and is aimed at helping healthcare professionals counsel expecting parents.

Omphalocele, gastroschisis: epidemiology, survival, and mortality in Imam Khomeini hospital, Ahvaz-Iran

Gastroschisis and omphalocele are the most common malformation of the anterior abdominal wall.The aim of the study was to determine the abdominal wall defect frequencies, survival, and mortalities in Ahvaz, Khuzestan province of Iran.Materiał and methods. All cases born with omphalocele or gastroschisis whom born in Imam Khomeini hospital, were included in this study. Duration of study was 3 years from April 2005. All patients treated at Imam Khomeini hospital in Ahwaz, Iran.Results. Among 15321 consecutive births, 42 patients had abdominal wall deformity. Overall incidence was 27.41 per 10,000 live births. Of all cases, 18 (42.9%) of cases were male and 24 (57.1%) were female. Of all cases, 21.7% of patients with omphalocele and 10% patients with gastroschisis had other anomalies. Of all cases, 71.8% of patients with omphalocele and 60% with gastroschisis underwent surgery. The type of anomaly (omphalocele and gastroschisis) had correlation with post operation prognosis significantly (p<0.001). Of 66.7% of patients under went surgery, 46.4% with mesh and 53.6% without mesh performed. 80% of patients with omphalocele and 20% with gastroschisis were lived.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, mortality was significantly higher in cases with gastroschisis than cases with omphalocele.

Pathologic ultrasound findings and risk for congenital anomalies in teenage pregnancies

OBJECTIVE

To detect the number and diagnosis of fetal malformations in teenage pregnancies and to evaluate whether low maternal age or epigenetic factors have an influence on this issue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis in a single center for prenatal diagnostics in Northern Germany. We searched our electronic databank for all pregnancies with maternal age under 20 years. Pregnancy outcome and fetal malformations are described.

RESULTS

The incidence of teenage pregnancies in our study was 638 patients (4.4%). The total of fetal malformations in teenage pregnancies was 51(8.3%). Chromosomal aberrations were found in 5 cases (0.9%). 9 cases of fetal gastroschisis as one of the most frequent malformations were followed up and neonatal outcome was uneventful. Furthermore we found 16 cases with different heart defects and 30 cases with other malformations. Patients' body mass indices showed an increase over the years and nicotine consumption was testified in more than 50% of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Teenage pregnancies are at risk for fetal non-chromosomal and chromosomal abnormalities. As these might be detected by first-trimester-screening prenatal care in teenage pregnancies should include at least early ultrasound examination. Epigenetic factors may play a key role in certain fetal malformations.

Influence of maternal factors on health outcomes in gastroschisis: a Canadian population-based study

BACKGROUND

Gastroschisis is increasing in incidence worldwide. There is a need for a disease-specific, population-based approach to determining factors linked with gastroschisis and its outcome.

OBJECTIVES

To examine racial, socioeconomic, health and geographic predictors of gastroschisis and its outcome in Canada.

METHODS

535 cases of gastroschisis from the Canadian Pediatric Surgery Network national database were included from May 2005 to May 2010. Baseline characteristics of mothers were compared with those reported by Statistics Canada. Factors associated with adverse neonatal outcomes were examined using regression analyses.

RESULTS

Mothers of infants with gastroschisis are young, often from small communities. Smoking (37%) and illicit drug use are common in this population. Single mothers receive less perinatal care (OR 0.06; 95% CI 0.02-0.28). Geographically isolated mothers are more likely to undergo caesarian section (OR 3.84; 95% CI 1.26-11.74). Cocaine use predicts a lower odds of delivering at a planned center (OR 0.25; 95% CI 0.08-0.79), and is also associated with an increased likelihood of intestinal injury at birth (OR 6.26; 95% CI 1.52-25.72). Infants of mothers from isolated communities will spend a mean of 31.9 days longer in hospital. Aboriginal status is not independently predictive of perinatal or neonatal outcome.

CONCLUSION

Gastroschisis in Canada occurs frequently in young mothers, aboriginals and smokers. Features associated with worse outcomes include single parent status, cocaine use and maternal hometown geographic isolation.

Teratogens inducing congenital abdominal wall defects in animal models

Congenital abdominal wall defects are common anomalies which include gastroschisis, omphalocele and umbilical cord hernia. Recent reports indicate that gastroschisis is increasing in prevalence, whereas omphalocele has remained steady, suggesting that environmental factors may play a part in their pathogenesis. The aim of this study is to review animal teratogen studies resulting in abdominal wall defects to investigate their possible causes. Each report was examined not only for the teratogens causing the defects, but also to carefully identify the defect occurring and its correlation with the known clinical anomalies. We found many discrepancies between the nomenclature used by animal teratology investigators and that used by clinicians. We were able to confirm the induction of gastroschisis by 22 teratogens, omphalocele by 9 teratogens and umbilical cord hernia by 8. There is no doubt that environmental factors may be responsible, at least in part, for all three of the clinical abdominal wall defects. Future studies should take care to appreciate the differences between these anomalies and describe them in detail, so that accurate and meaningful conclusions can be obtained.

Prevalence of gastroschisis and associated hospital time continue to rise in neonates who are admitted for intensive care

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate recent trends in the prevalence of gastroschisis.

METHODS

The study used a retrospective review of a deidentified neonatal intensive care patient data set. To control for ascertainment bias, the prevalence of omphalocele was calculated to provide an internal comparison to another anomaly requiring surgical intervention.

RESULTS

During the study period (1997-2007), there were 473,366 discharges from the neonatal intensive care unit in the data set. There were 2057 (5.3/1000 discharges) neonates who had a gastroschisis and 853 (1.8/1000 discharges) who had an omphalocele. Between 1997 and 2004, the reported rate of gastroschisis increased from 2.9 to 6.1/1000 discharges, a relative increase of 210% (P < .001). Since 2004, the values have remained relatively stable at between 5.5 and 6.2/1000 discharges. Between 1997 and 2007, the hospital days for patients with gastroschisis/total hospital days increased from 0.6% to 1.3%, a relative increase of 220% (P < .001). In contrast, the reported rate of neonates with and the number of hospital days attributed to neonates with omphalocele has not changed significantly.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence and the number of hospital days needed to care for neonates with gastroschisis have continued to increase since 2001.

Increasing prevalence of gastroschisis: population-based study in California

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate time trend of gastroschisis and examine the epidemiological risk factors for gastroschisis.

STUDY DESIGN

This population-based study analyzed the active surveillance data from the California Birth Defects Monitoring Program from 1987 to 2003.

RESULTS

The overall birth prevalence of gastroschisis was 2.6 cases per 10,000 births (908 cases in >3.5 million births). In the adjusted analysis, by using the age of 25 to 29 years as the reference, mothers aged 12 to 15 years had a 4.2-times greater birth prevalence (95% CI, 2.5-7.0), and fathers aged 16 to 19 years and 20 to 24 years had 1.6- and 1.5-times greater birth prevalence (95% CI, 1.1-2.1 and 1.2-1.8), respectively. Compared with non-Hispanic whites and US-born Hispanic, both foreign-born Hispanics and blacks had adjusted prevalence ratio of 0.6 (95% CI, 0.5-0.7 and 0.4-0.9, respectively). In addition, nulliparity was also associated with gastroschisis. Independent of maternal age, paternal age, and maternal ethnicity, the birth prevalence increased 3.2-fold (95% CI, 2.3-4.3) during the 17-year study period.

CONCLUSIONS

The birth prevalence of gastroschisis continues to increase in California, and young, nulliparous women are at the greatest risk of having a child with gastroschisis.

Infectious complications in infants with gastroschisis: an 11-year review from a referral hospital in southern Thailand

MAIN PURPOSES: The study aimed to (1) examine the incidence of infectious complications (ICs) in our referral hospital in southern Thailand in infants with gastroschisis, with analysis of the impact of these complications on outcomes, and (2) identify associated factors to improve the practice at our institution for dealing with this condition.

METHODS

A retrospective review of consecutive gastroschisis cases at the major teaching and referral hospital in southern Thailand was conducted for an 11-year period (1996-2006). Cases referred after a primary operation at other hospitals were excluded. The study focused on postoperative nosocomial infections as identified by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients with gastroschisis were operated on. Twenty-seven patients (39.71%) underwent primary closure. Mortality was 4 of 68 patients (5.9%). Infectious complication occurred in 43 patients (63.2%). The complications significantly increased mechanical ventilation days (10.8 vs 3.8 days in noncomplicated cases), need for parenteral nutrition (25.3 vs 14.5 days), and postoperative stay (33.7 vs 21.1 days). Common ICs were wound infection (32.35%), isolated septicemia (19.1%), and pneumonia (13.24%). Univariate analysis identified an association between the occurrence of IC and birth order (multigravida), time from birth until arrival at our center (5 hours or more), hypoalbuminemia, hypoglycemia, type of operation (staged closure), use of central venous line, and prolonged use of ventilator. On multiple logistic regression, prolonged referral time, use of a central venous line, multigravida, and staged closure independently predicted the risk of IC.

CONCLUSION

Infectious complication was significantly related to outcome in gastroschisis cases and should not be overlooked. Our data suggest that prompt referral, limiting central line practice on a selective basis, and an attempt to reduce wound infection in cases that require a temporary silo may improve the overall outcomes.

Gastroschisis: what is the average gestational age of spontaneous delivery?

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

To consolidate what is known about pregnancies complicated by fetal gastroschisis through analysis of one of the largest series yet reported and to define the average gestational age of spontaneous delivery.

METHODS

From 1980 to 2001, 159 pregnancies complicated by fetal gastroschisis were identified at a tertiary care center. Gestational age at delivery, birth weight, preterm delivery rate, and maternal age were compared to the 2001 general population statistics. Patients with pregnancies complicated by gastroschisis who went into spontaneous labor (n = 86) were subdivided into 2 groups based on gestational age (< 37 weeks and > or = 37 weeks). Operative delivery rates for nonreassuring fetal status and Apgar scores were assessed.

RESULTS

Gastroschisis occurred more often in younger mothers (< 21 years) (42% vs 7.3%), was more frequently associated with preterm labor and delivery (28% vs 6%), and was associated with more low-birth-weight babies (36% vs 10%). The mean gestational age at spontaneous labor was 36.6 weeks. In those patients who labored spontaneously, there were no significant differences in the operative delivery rates for fetal distress; however, there was a trend to lower Apgar scores in babies born at 37 weeks or more.

CONCLUSION

Our data provide a framework for further studies to determine the optimal timing and mode of delivery for fetuses with gastroschisis.

Increasing prevalence of gastroschisis repairs in the United States: 1996-2003

PURPOSE

Local and state registries have shown recent increases in the prevalence of gastroschisis in the United States and abroad. The purpose of this study was to use a nationally representative database to identify national trends in the prevalence of gastroschisis repairs.

METHODS

Records of infants undergoing gastroschisis repair were identified in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 1996 to 2003. Birth data were obtained from the National Center for Health Statistics and used to calculate the rate of procedures/live births stratified by US census region. Survey statistics were used to account for the sampling design of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database.

RESULTS

Between 1996 and 2003, a total of 9459 gastroschisis repairs were performed in the United States (3 procedures for every 10,000 births). A significant increase in the population-based rate of these procedures was observed in each census regions and nationwide. A twofold higher procedure rate was observed in 2003 than in 1996 (rate ratio, 2.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-2.9; P < .001). No significant change in unadjusted hospital mortality was observed regionally or nationally.

CONCLUSIONS

The population-based rate of gastroschisis repairs significantly increased regionally and nationwide between 1996 and 2003, paralleling recent trends described at the local and state level.