Omphalocele

Omphalocele is a birth defect in which a baby’s abdominal organs—such as intestines, liver, or stomach—protrude through the belly button and are enclosed in a thin, transparent sac. This condition occurs when the abdominal wall fails to close properly during fetal development.

Omphalocele varies in size:

• Small omphalocele: Only intestines protrude.

• Large omphalocele: Liver and other organs may also be outside the abdomen.

It is often associated with other congenital anomalies or genetic conditions, so thorough evaluation is essential.