What Causes Gastroschisis?
Doctors do not know the exact cause of gastroschisis. It does not usually run in families. If you have one baby with gastroschisis, it does not mean your next baby will have it. The exact cause of gastroschisis is not known. It does not appear to be inherited. Having one baby with gastroschisis does not make it more likely that you would have another baby with the condition.
Types of Gastroschisis
Gastroschisis can be simple or complicated. This depends on how damaged or swollen the intestines are.
Simple gastroschisis
Only the intestines come out of the opening.
Complicated gastroschisis
Complicated gastroschisis may include:
- The intestines are badly damaged.
- Part of the intestine has died (called necrosis).
- The intestine is twisted or blocked (intestinal atresia).
- Other organs, like the stomach or liver, come out too.
Simple cases are more common than complicated ones.