Omphalocele is a birth defect that occurs as the fetus is developing in the mother's womb. The infant's intestine or other stomach organs stick out of the belly button. The intestines are covered only by thin, transparent tissue. In a small omphalocele, only the intestines protrude out. In a large omphalocele, the spleen, liver and intestines stick out.
Diagnosis
An omphalocele can be detected in the womb with an ultrasound during the second and third trimesters. After birth, your physician can confirm diagnosis with a physical exam. X-rays may be done after birth to see whether any other abnormalities of organs have occurred.
Concerns
Infection can occur if the membrane protecting the organs breaks. There is also a chance the organ could become twisted or pinched, cutting off blood supply. Organ damage or failure can occur if the organ does not get enough blood flow.
Treatments
For a small omphalocele, surgery will take place shortly after birth. The operation will return the organs back into the stomach area and the stomach wall will be stitched shut. For a large omphalocele, treatment is performed in stages. Treatment may include sterile sheeting put over the open area to cover the abdominal organs. Some infants' stomachs may be underdeveloped so organs are returned a little at a time over a few days or weeks. Once the organs have been completely returned, the abdominal wall is closed. Sometimes organs are swollen when returned to the abdominal cavity and the infant may experience breathing difficulties. A mechanical ventilator will help the baby's breathing until swelling subsides and the abdominal cavity has time to grow.
Outlook
An infant born with an omphalocele should expect a full recovery after surgery. When an omphalocele has been diagnosed before birth, special arrangements should be made concerning delivery. It is best to have the infant delivered in a hospital with personnel skilled and equipped to take care of the omphalocele. Since an omphalocele can be associated with other genetic defects, parents may want to screen their unborn baby to be prepared for any other type of problem.
Tags: abdominal cavity, after birth, large omphalocele, organs have, returned abdominal