Prenatal ultrasonographic findings associated with short bowel syndrome in two fetuses with gastroschisis.
BACKGROUND
Studies on the importance of prenatal ultrasonographic findings in gastroschisis have shown variable significance in predicting neonatal outcome. We report two cases of short bowel syndrome and poor neonatal outcome that had interesting prenatal ultrasonographic findings.


METHODS
Gastroschisis was confirmed in both cases. Throughout gestation, the extra-abdominal bowel remained unchanged in size, hyperechoic, and clustered. Amniotic fluid volume increased with increasing intra-abdominal bowel dilation. Both fetuses were delivered prematurely and found to have short bowel syndrome incompatible with life.


CONCLUSIONS
Prenatal ultrasonographic findings of hyperechoic and clustered extra-abdominal bowel with progressive intra-abdominal bowel dilation and associated polyhydramnios may be indicative of high bowel obstruction, atresia, and poor neonatal outcome. Families should be counseled cautiously.
McMahon
M J
MJ
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA.
Kuller
J A
JA
Chescheir
N C
NC
D000009:Abdominal Muscles / Q000002:abnormalities*; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007422:Intestines / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011247:Pregnancy; D012778:Short Bowel Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal