Abdominal wall defects

Abdominal wall defects are a group of birth defects that involve an opening in the abdomen through which the organs inside can protrude. The two most common types of abdominal wall defects are gastroschisis and omphalocele, both of which involve a hole in the abdominal wall at birth.

Types of Abdominal Wall Defects

Gastroschisis

Gastroschisis is a birth defect of the abdominal wall where the baby's intestines stick outside of the body, through a hole beside the belly button. The hole can be small or large and sometimes other organs, like the stomach and liver, can also stick out of this hole.

Omphalocele

Omphalocele is a birth defect where an infant's intestine or other abdominal organs stick out of the belly button. In babies with an omphalocele, the intestines are covered only by a thin layer of tissue and can be easily seen.

Causes

The exact cause of abdominal wall defects is not known. However, some researchers believe that a combination of genetics, environmental factors, and certain medications taken during pregnancy may play a role.

Diagnosis

Abdominal wall defects can often be diagnosed before birth through a routine ultrasound. After birth, the defect is immediately visible.

Treatment

Treatment for abdominal wall defects usually involves surgery to put the organs back into the abdomen and close the hole in the abdominal wall. The type of surgery and the long-term outcome for the baby depend on the size of the defect and the specific organs that are involved.

See also

• Birth defect
• Congenital disorder
• Pediatric surgery