What prenatal ultrasound features are predictable of complex or vanishing gastroschisis? A retrospective study

Objective To evaluate prenatal ultrasound parameters as prognostic factors for complex and vanishing gastroschisis. Methods Retrospective multicentre study of 200 gastroschisis over 13 years (2000–2013). Collection of prenatal ultrasound evaluation on maternal and fetal growth parameters, intra‐ and extra‐abdominal bowel and stomach dilation, abdominal wall defect diameter and changes in bowel appearance. Correlation of these factors with the presence of mechanical intestinal complications at birth, named ‘complex gastroschisis’. Results Fifty‐two patients (26%) had complex gastroschisis (CG), including ten vanishing gastroschisis. The presence of intra‐abdominal bowel dilation at the second (T2) or third (T3) trimester ultrasound was predictive for CG, with odds ratios at 6.69 (95%CI 2.41–18.55) and 4.72 (95%CI 2.16–10.28), respectively, with a cut‐off value at the last examination of >19 mm. A small abdominal wall defect diameter was also predictive for CG, with cut‐off values of