omphalocele
Pronunciation: om-FAL-oh-seel
Congenital abdominal wall defect with membrane-covered intestinal herniation at umbilicus.
Full Definition
A congenital abdominal wall defect in which abdominal contents herniate through the umbilical ring and are covered by a protective membrane composed of amnion and peritoneum. The umbilical cord inserts directly into the membrane-covered sac. Omphaloceles vary in size from small defects containing only bowel to giant defects containing liver and other organs. Associated anomalies are common, occurring in up to 70% of cases, and may include cardiac, chromosomal, and other structural abnormalities. Treatment approach depends on the size of the defect and associated conditions.
Usage
Usage note: Greek origin; distinguish from gastroschisis by presence of covering membrane and central location.
In Context
- "The large omphalocele contained liver and required staged surgical approach." — Surgical note
- "Genetic counseling was recommended due to the association between omphalocele and chromosomal abnormalities." — Consultation recommendation