omphalocele
Pronunciation: om-FAL-oh-seel
Congenital abdominal wall defect where abdominal organs protrude through the umbilical cord base, covered by a membrane.
Full Definition
An omphalocele is a congenital abdominal wall defect occurring at the base of the umbilical cord, where abdominal organs (typically bowel, liver, and sometimes other organs) herniate outside the body cavity. Unlike gastroschisis, the protruding organs in omphalocele are covered by a protective membrane consisting of peritoneum and amnion. The defect ranges from small (containing only bowel) to giant (containing liver and other organs). Omphaloceles are often associated with other congenital anomalies and genetic syndromes. Treatment involves surgical repair, which may be staged in large defects. Prenatal diagnosis is possible through ultrasound, and delivery should occur at a facility equipped for immediate neonatal surgical intervention.
Usage
Usage note: British spelling variant is 'exomphalos'; maintain consistency within documents.
In Context
- "The newborn's large omphalocele containing liver required staged surgical closure over several months." — Pediatric surgery consultation