An omphalocele is a birth defect in which the infant’s intestines or abdominal organs stick out of the belly button or navel. In babies with this condition, the intestine is only covered by a thin layer of tissue  and can easily been seen. About 25 to 40% of babies born with this condition  usually have other birth defects that may include genetic problems,  congenital diaphragmatic hernia and  heart defects.

What are the symptoms of omphalocele ?

An omphalocele can be seen clearly because the abdominal contents stick out through the belly button area. There are different sizes of omphalocele. In larger ones, the spleen and liver can also stick out.

How is an omphalocele diagnosed ?

It is usually diagnosed during a prenatal ultrasound before the baby is born. Physical examination is sufficient  to diagnose  the condition.

How is omphalocele treated ?

It is usually treated with surgery although almost not immediately. A sac protects the abdominal contents  and allows time for  more serious conditions like heart defects to be treated  first if necessary.

To fix this condition, the sac is covered with a special synthetic material which is then  stitched in place. The abdominal contents are slowly pushed in place over time. When the omphalocele can safely fit into the  abdominal cavity, the synthetic material is removed and the abdomen is closed.

In some cases, the omphalocele is so large that it cannot be placed back inside the infant’s abdomen.The skin around the omphalocele grows and eventually covers the omphalocele. The abdominal muscles and skin can be repaired when the child is older in order to achieve a better cosmetic outcome.

NOTE

Infants with omphalocele usually have other birth defects. How well the child does depends on any other condition.