Condition
Pediatric Omphalocele
What is an omphalocele?
An omphalocele is a birth defect, which is an abnormality that occurs before birth as a fetus is forming in its mother's uterus. Some of the abdominal organs protrude through an opening in the abdominal muscles in the area of the umbilical cord. A translucent membrane covers the protruding organs.
The omphalocele may be small, with only a portion of the intestine protruding outside the abdominal cavity, or large, with most of the abdominal organs (including intestine, liver, and spleen) present outside the abdominal cavity. Further, the abdominal cavity itself may be small due to underdevelopment during pregnancy.
Meet the Providers Who Treat Omphalocele
Nick's Story
When Nick Cornelius passed his pediatrician's two-year-old well-child check-up with flying colors, his parents were thrilled. Probably even more thrilled than typical first-time toddler parents, because Nick's life up to that point had been anything but typical.
Departments that Treat Omphalocele
General and Thoracic Surgery
The General and Thoracic Surgery team offers expert surgical care with minimally invasive techniques for a wide range of conditions in children. Learn more about this department.
Rare Disease Institute - Genetics and Metabolism
Children's National Rare Disease Institute (CNRDI) is a first-of-its-kind center focused exclusively on advancing the care and treatment of children and adults with rare genetic diseases.
Neonatology
Whether your infant has arrived prematurely or has a critical illness, the Children's National Hospital's top-ranked neonatology team assists in coordinating every service you and your baby need, including consultations, assessments, emergency treatments and continuing care.
Help Kids and Make a Difference
Invest in future cures for some of life's most devastating diseases. Give today to help more children grow up stronger.