Abdominal wall defects

Abdominal wall defects in foetuses include gastroschisis, exomphalos, bladder exstrophy complex, cloacal exstrophy and body stalk syndrome. The defects that occur more commonly are gastroschisis and exomphalos. In this review we assess the current evidence regarding the incidence, perinatal risk factors, antenatal and postnatal management and outcome for both these conditions. A review of the current surgical practices for management of gastroschisis and exomphalos is discussed.