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 delivery ; however, others have shown statistically superior outcomes with vaginal delivery. The data are at best inconclusive and the preponderance of investigators have found mode of delivery to have no impact on outcomes. Moreover, there have been no prospective randomized studies performed to date.
This retrospective data analysis was prompted by the clinical observation of a substantial increase in cesarean section delivery for infants with gastroschisis,
despite a lack of evidence to justify such a shift. We reviewed our neonatal database to evaluate changes in method of delivery over time. In addition, with available
data, we examined the hypothesis that cesarean section is associated with improved outcome.
The null hypothesis was no difference for vaginal versus cesarean delivery
in gastroschisis patients for the following parameters: Apgar scores, method of abdominal wall closure, birthweight and gestational age, age feedings were begun,
length of hospital stay, complications (sepsis, bowel obstruction, and atresia), and survival.