Tailoring the small-bowel follow-through examination postoperatively in gastroschisis patients

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to establish a small-bowel follow-through (SBFT) protocol in post-operative gastroschisis patients. In 15 years, 19 SBFT examinations have been performed to diagnose or exclude obstruction in 61 gastroschisis patients. The average examination required 6.7 overhead films (range 3-15) and lasted 34 h (1-190 h). The diagnosis of intestinal obstruction was supported on SBFT in only 1 of 19 patients who underwent this examination. In the other 18, the examination showed no obstruction (13 patients) or was nonconclusive (5 patients). The inherent dysmotility associated with gastroschisis can result in redundant overhead films being made during SFBT. We recommend that an SBFT examination in gastroschisis patients consist of (1) fluoro-evaluation of esophagus, stomach, and duodenum; (2a) if normal peristalsis is noted, then an overhead film at 30 min, or (2b), if altered peristalsis or little movement of contrast medium is noted on the 30-min overhead film, then an overhead film at 4 and 12 h. This is followed by overhead films every 24 h if required. This protocol can result in a decrease in patient radiation, department costs, and staff work load.