omphalocele
Pronunciation: om-FAL-oh-seel
A congenital defect where abdominal organs herniate through the umbilical ring and remain covered by a membrane.
Full Definition
Omphalocele is a congenital abdominal wall defect characterized by herniation of abdominal contents through a defect at the base of the umbilical cord. The herniated organs are covered by a translucent membrane consisting of peritoneum and amnion. The defect can range from small (containing only bowel loops) to giant (containing liver and other organs). Omphalocele occurs in approximately 1 in 5,000 births and is frequently associated with other anomalies and chromosomal abnormalities, including trisomy 13, 18, and 21. Prenatal diagnosis is typically made during routine ultrasound screening, and the prognosis depends on the size of the defect and presence of associated anomalies.
Usage
Usage note: Key distinguishing feature from gastroschisis is the presence of covering membrane.
In Context
- "The large omphalocele contained both bowel and liver, requiring comprehensive genetic counseling." — Prenatal consultation note
- "Unlike gastroschisis, the omphalocele was covered by an intact peritoneal membrane." — Ultrasound interpretation