The female condom as a temporary silo: A simple and inexpensive tool in the initial management of the newborn with gastroschisis

Abstract

Objective. The aim of this study is to report the use of a female condom as a non-surgical silon pouch in the early management of newborns with gastroschisis with large visceroabdominal disproportion.

Methods. Pre-washed, sterile female condoms without spermicide were used as an early approach to treat gastroschisis in 20 newborns with large defects and in whom staged correction was anticipated. The condom was placed in the neonatal intensive care unit using sterile technique, with no anesthesia, and it was removed only at the time of the surgical procedure for gastroschisis correction.

Results. There were no complications associated with the use of a female condom as a temporary silo for gastroschisis. It protected the exposed organs and also allowed a careful evaluation of the bowel and a better pre-operative planning without the need for emergency procedures.

Conclusion. The use of a female condom as a silon pouch is a low-cost and simple alternative in the initial management of newborns with gastroschisis in whom primary correction is considered non-feasible.

Keywords:

• Gastroschisis
• silon pouch
• female condom