omphalocele
Pronunciation: om-FAL-oh-seel
Congenital defect where abdominal contents herniate through the umbilical ring, covered by a peritoneal sac.
Full Definition
A congenital abdominal wall defect characterized by herniation of abdominal contents through a central umbilical defect, with the herniated organs covered by a translucent peritoneal and amniotic membrane sac. The defect size varies from small (containing only bowel) to giant (containing liver and other organs). Unlike gastroschisis, the covering sac protects the organs from amniotic fluid exposure. Associated anomalies are common, particularly cardiac defects. Surgical management depends on defect size and may require staged closure with initial sac preservation or prosthetic mesh placement.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from gastroschisis by presence of covering sac and central location.
In Context
- "The giant omphalocele containing liver and bowel required staged closure with initial prosthetic mesh placement." — operative report
- "Prenatal echocardiography is essential in omphalocele cases due to the high incidence of associated cardiac anomalies." — clinical protocol