children s health issues
Abdominal Wall Defects (Omphalocele and Gastroschisis)
Omphalocele
An omphalocele is caused by an opening (defect) in the middle of the abdominal wallatthe bellybutton (umbilicus). The skin, muscle, and fibrous tissue are missing. The intestines spill (herniate) out through the opening and are covered by a thin sac. The umbilical cord is in the center of the defect. An omphalocele commonly occurs along with other birth defects (such as Overview of Heart Defects and 