Gastroschisis is an abdominal wall defect characterized by a hernia that causes the organs to protrude out of the rupture. As a result, the infant’s organs are exposed to the outside world. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, and treatments for gastroschisis.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with gastroschisis after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Gastroschisis Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms associated with gastroschisis include the protrusion of the infant’s organs through the abdominal wall near the umbilical cord and an abnormal lump in the abdomen.
Gastroschisis Causes
Gastroschisis is a congenital birth defect that occurs when the muscles in the abdominal wall do not close properly. The exact cause of gastroschisis remains unknown. However, in July 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the birth defect risks caused by using antidepressants during pregnancy. Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of gastroschisis in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy. The following is a list of antidepressant medications that have been linked to this type of birth defect:
- Paroxetine
- Zoloft (Sertraline)
- Celexa (Citalopram)
- Prozac (Fluoxetine)
- Lexapro (Escitalopram)
- Fluvoxamine
- Symbyax (fluoxetine and olanzapine)
- Bupropion
- Effexor (Venlafaxine)
Gastroschisis Risk Factors
Risk factors associated with gastroschisis are generally unknown due to the congenital nature of the defect. However, antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of gastroschisis in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy.
Gastroschisis Complications
Complications associated with gastroschisis include:
- Unable to expand lungs
- Breathing difficulties
- Small abdominal cavity
- Death
Gastroschisis Treatments
The only treatment regarding gastroschisis requires intricate surgery. A surgeon will place the protruding contents back inside of the abdominal cavity and close the defect. If the abdominal cavity is too small to hold the organs, the surgeon will place a mesh sack over the remaining organs. Over time, this mesh gradually pushes the organs back inside the abdominal cavity, and then the defect can be closed. For more information regarding the treatment of gastroschisis, please visit PubMed Health.
Do I have a Gastroschisis Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in gastroschisis lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with gastroschisis after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-800-773-0849. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.