Gastroschisis and omphalocele are the most common congenital malformations of the abdominal wall that required surgical correction. Despite of the long history of the gastroschisis’ study, there is no generally accepted theory of the pathogenesis of this malformation. There are numerous theories of the pathogenesis of gastroschisis discussed in the modern literature: disorders of differentiation of embrionic mesenchyme as the result of teratogenic influence on the early stages of the embryonic development; rupture of amniotic membrane at the base of the umbilical cord; vascular disorders during of the embryonic development; disorders of the yolk-sac escape. Each of existing theories has its supporters and opponents. It is no generally accepted theory of the pathogenesis of gastroschisis. Most likely is the rupture of physiological hernia along the umbilical cord in its pars flaccid, with the subsequent elongation of the midgut out of the abdominal cavity with the vascular compression, especially of venous and lymphatic vessels. Narrow mesenteric root and narrow-sized defect may contribute to various complications that jeopardize the ultimate prognosis. Further studies are needed to finalize the pathogenesis of gastroschisis. No conflict of interest was declared by the author. Key words: gastroschisis, pathogenesis, vascular disorders, embryonic disorders.
Review of the theories of gastroschisis pathogenesis