Omphalocele

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Infant omphalocele Omphalocele repair - series

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Omphalocele

Omphaloceles are surgically repaired, although not always immediately. The sac protects the abdominal contents and allows time for other more serious problems (such as heart defects) to be dealt with first, if neccessary.

To fix an omphalocele, the sac is covered with a special silo, which is then stitched in place. Slowly, over time, the volume of the silo is decreased and the abdominal contents are pushed into the abdomen.

When the omphalocele can comfortably fit within the abdominal cavity, the synthetic material is removed and the abdomen is closed.

Complete recovery is expected. Frequently, omphalocele can be associated with other birth defects, and the prognosis then depends on these conditions.

• Intestinal infection
• Death of the intestinal tissue related to dryness or trauma to the unprotected intestine

This problem is diagnosed and repaired in the hospital at birth. After returning home, call your health care provider if the infant develops any of these symptoms:

• Feeding problems
• Vomiting (not normal baby spitting-up)
• Green or yellowish green vomitus
• Distended abdomen
• Decreased bowel movements
• Fever
• Behavioral changes that are worrisome

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