omphalocele
Pronunciation: om-FAL-oh-seel
Congenital abdominal wall defect where abdominal contents herniate into the umbilical cord, covered by a membrane.
Full Definition
An omphalocele is a congenital ventral wall defect characterized by herniation of abdominal contents into the base of the umbilical cord, with the herniated organs covered by a translucent membrane composed of amnion and peritoneum. Unlike gastroschisis, the protective membrane prevents direct exposure to amniotic fluid. Omphaloceles are frequently associated with chromosomal anomalies and other congenital malformations, requiring comprehensive genetic evaluation. The size varies from small defects containing only bowel to giant omphaloceles containing most abdominal organs. This diagnosis appears in prenatal ultrasound reports, genetic counseling documentation, and neonatal surgical planning records.
Usage
Usage note: Note the 'omphal-' prefix referring to umbilicus. Distinguish from gastroschisis, which lacks a protective membrane.
In Context
- "Prenatal diagnosis revealed a large omphalocele containing liver and bowel." — Maternal-fetal medicine consultation
- "The omphalocele sac remained intact throughout delivery." — Delivery note