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Omphalocele

Definition:
An omphalocele involves herniation (displacement) of the intestine or other abdominal contents through the umbilical root, which is covered only by peritoneum (the abdominal membrane) rather than skin.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

An omphalocele is a relatively frequent abnormality of the newborn that occurs in approximately 1 in 5,000 births. If this condition is present, the intestines can be easily seen through the translucent peritoneal membrane.

Significant associated birth defects occur in approximately 25-40% of infants with an omphalocele, and they include genetic problems (chromosomal abnormalities), congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and heart defects.



Review Date: 7/30/2002
Reviewed By: Jonathan Fanaroff, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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