Omphalocele

Abdominal Wall Defect

Overview

An omphalocele is a condition in which a baby’s intestines or other abdominal organs stick outside of the body because of an opening in the area of the umbilical cord. The intestines are covered by a thin membrane and can be seen quite clearly. This requires immediate attention as it can affect other organs as well.

Symptoms

The major symptom of omphalocele is when the baby’s intestines and other organs remain outside the abdominal wall while still growing in the mother’s womb.

Causes

Omphalocele can be caused due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is most likely to occur for the following reasons:

Diagnosis

Other than regular physical examination, a doctor may diagnose omphalocele before the baby is born with the help of the following tests:

Ultrasound

Blood Tests

X-Ray

ERCP

When to See a Doctor

Make an appointment right away if any worrisome symptoms appear.

Treatment

Treatment for omphalocele depends on the size of omphalocele, the severity of the condition, other birth defects, and the infant’s overall health. Small-sized omphaloceles are treated right after birth with surgery to push back the intestines into the belly and close the abdominal wall’s opening.

Large omphaloceles which involve pushing back multiple organs require surgery to be done in stages. It takes several days to wait for the baby’s abdomen to develop fully to hold all the organs together. During this time, a protective sheet is used to prevent the body from catching an infection.

Surgeons at Curadors have successfully performed several such procedures over a period of 15 years. Our partnered facility, Maroof International Hospital has state-of-the-art operation theaters equipped with the world’s most advanced equipment to provide the best quality treatment to our patients.

Risks, Complications & Preventions

If you have a family history of omphalocele, you are advised to take essential vitamins and minerals to support fetal development. Avoid excessive smoking and drinking and maintain a healthy weight.