Obstetric management of the fetus with omphalocele or gastroschisis: a review and report of one hundred twelve cases.

The prenatal diagnosis of an abdominal wall defect in the fetus has led some obstetricians to recommend delivery by cesarean section in order to avoid trauma to the defect and reduce the risk of dystocia. A review was made of the obstetric management of 112 infants with abdominal wall defects who were admitted to a neonatal surgical unit. Cesarean section was performed in 16%, but no cesarean sections were performed because of the prenatal diagnosis, which was made in only four cases. The mortality rate for infants with omphalocele was 29%, and that for infants with gastroschisis was 13.5%. Visceral injury from the delivery process was suggested in one case. Decisions about obstetric management were made in the absence of the knowledge of the anomaly, and vaginal delivery did not appear to adversely affect outcome. It remains to be seen whether more accurate prenatal diagnosis will identify subgroups of infants who would benefit by cesarean section. Until that time, elective cesarean section does not seem to be justified.