Selection of the appropriate method of delivery
for the infant with an antenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis
is controversial. Advocates of elective cesarean section
cite earlier initiation of feeding, shorter hospitalization,
and lower morbidity and mortality, although this is not
universally supported by the data generated thus far.
Small series have found a benefit to cesarean delivery1
;
however, others have shown statistically superior outcomes
with vaginal delivery.2 The data are at best
inconclusive and the preponderance of investigators
have found mode of delivery to have no impact on
outcomes.3–15 Moreover, there have been no prospective
randomized studies performed to date.