Ultrasonic and clinical aspects in the diagnosis and prognosis of congenital gastrointestinal anomalies.

The diagnostic and prognostic aspects were analyzed in 36 cases of congenital gastrointestinal tract anomalies. An abnormality was ultrasonically detected or strongly suspected in 53% of the cases, with the highest accuracy in the groups of omphalocele and duodenal atresia and with the lowest detection rate in diaphragmatic hernia and oesophageal atresia. Polyhydramnion was present in 47% of the cases. The high rate of total fetal and neonatal loss (70%) was mainly attributed to associated multiple anomalies of the fetus (66%). The frequency of chromosomal abnormalities was 39%. Our results reflect the complexity of the practical problems associated with the diagnosis and management of fetal gastrointestinal anomalies.