omphalocele
Pronunciation: om-FAL-o-seel
Congenital midline abdominal wall defect where abdominal contents herniate through the umbilical ring and are covered by a membrane.
Full Definition
A congenital ventral abdominal wall defect occurring at the umbilicus, where abdominal organs (bowel, liver, or both) herniate into the umbilical cord base and are covered by a translucent membrane composed of amnion and peritoneum. Unlike gastroschisis, the herniated contents are contained within this protective sac. The defect size varies considerably, and larger defects may contain significant portions of the liver. Associated anomalies are common, particularly cardiac defects, and the condition may be part of genetic syndromes such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome.
Usage
Usage note: The presence of a covering membrane distinguishes this from gastroschisis; often associated with other congenital anomalies.
In Context
- "The prenatal MRI demonstrated a large omphalocele containing both bowel and liver within the membrane-covered sac." — Fetal MRI report
- "Given the association of omphalocele with cardiac anomalies, echocardiography was recommended." — Pediatric radiology consultation