Abstract
Background/Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess the degree of elevation of serum C-reactive
protein (CRP) levels in infants with gastroschisis managed by placement of a preformed
silo and subsequent nonoperative closure.
Methods CRP measurements were collected prospectively in infants with gastroschisis undergoing
preformed silo placement until defect closure. Infants requiring operative closure
or surgical silo placement were excluded as were any infants with confirmed sepsis
during the closure period.
Results Data were available for 43 infants. Median CRP at birth was 8 mg/L (range 6 to 55)
rising to 42 mg/L (range 35 to 68) at the time of closure.
Conclusions Elevation of serum CRP levels is to be expected in infants with gastroschisis managed
with a preformed silo in the absence of infection. This data may be used to prevent
unnecessary use of antibiotics in this group of patients.
Keywords
gastroschisis - C-reactive protein (CRP) - silo
