A baby diagnosed before birth with gastroschisis was delivered safely at 36 weeks. Our NICU and paediatric surgery teams cared for him over the weeks that followed.

A baby was diagnosed before birth with gastroschisis, a rare abdominal wall defect. He was delivered at 36 weeks by vaginal delivery at King's College Hospital Jeddah.

Our NICU and paediatric surgery teams were ready. Straight after birth they worked to protect the exposed bowel and prevent fluid loss.

The team used a SILO bag to return the abdominal contents in stages. Over eight days the bowel loops were repositioned, followed by surgical repair on day nine.

With support from the NICU team, including total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and neonatal care, the baby grew stronger. At seven weeks old he was feeding, healthy, and ready to go home.