GASTROCHISIS AND NUTRITIONAL MANAGEMENT I
Gastrochisis is a paraumbilical wall defect i.e congenital (birth) defect in which there is protrusion of the baby’s intestine through an opening in the abdominal wall most times to the right of the umbilical cord.
This congenital problem is rare and it happens during pregnancy whereby the exposed intestine of the fetus falls out into the surrounding of the amniotic fluid. This can cause many complications like reduced blood flow, blockage or malfunction of the organ, irritation, infections(sepsis can set in), swelling, feeding issues after birth and so on.
The causes of gastrochisis is not known yet but there are potential risk factors that may include alcohol intake by the mother. Also it is greater in babies with mothers age 20 and below. Babies with gastrochisis often experience delayed bowel motility, poor nutrient absorption,feeding intolerance, increased energy requirements, growth failure risk and short bowel syndrome.
Read more on:Â Nutrition for different life stages: How your diet changes as You Age
NUTRITIONAL MANAGEMENT OF GASTROCHISIS
Although surgery is always needed to repair gastrochisis and it is usually performed within the first few hours after birth. The baby’s temperature is always carefully monitored and controlled since the exposed intestine allows body heat to escape. After surgery, the stomach always takes time to recover. Nutrients are always most likely provided through intravenous feeding also called Parenteral Nutrition for the baby’s initial stage of feeding.
Total parenteral nutrition is often required for one to two weeks or longer until the bowel function returns back to normal. During this period nutrients like glucose(for energy), amino acids( for growth and tissue repair), lipids(for essential Fatty acids and calories), electrolytes (for fluid balance) and vitamins and minerals ( for metabolic functions) is required.
These nutrients helps to prevent malnutrition, promote wound healing, maintain growth and support immune function.
I will emphasize more on the Nutritional management of gastrochisis on my next write up. Please like and leave a comment in the comment section box. Also you can read more on:Â Eating Disorder and Nutritiona Management
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