Omphalocele is also known as exomphalos.
Understanding Omphalocele/Exomphalos
An omphalocele, or exomphalos, is a birth defect where a baby's intestines or other abdominal organs stick outside of the belly through the navel. This happens because the abdominal muscles don't close completely during pregnancy. It's considered a rare abdominal wall defect.
The condition begins around the 6th week of fetal development. Rapid growth of the gut and liver temporarily reduces space within the abdominal cavity, causing intestinal loops to protrude outside.
- Key takeaway: The terms omphalocele and exomphalos are interchangeable and refer to the same condition.
