What is an omphalocele?

An omphalocele is characterized by the intestines, and sometimes other abdominal organs, protruding through an abnormal opening in the abdominal wall at the umbilicus. This occurs during fetal development when the abdominal muscles do not properly close, resulting in herniation of the intestines into a protective sac made of peritoneum. The presence of the sac and its connection to the umbilical cord help to distinguish an omphalocele from other forms of abdominal wall defects.

Understanding this condition is crucial because it can lead to complications such as infection, organ damage, and challenges with the gastrointestinal tract if not addressed promptly after birth. Additionally, omphaloceles are often associated with other congenital conditions and genetic syndromes, making early diagnosis important for management and care planning.

The other options refer to unrelated medical conditions: a heart defect, kidney formation issues, and a genetic syndrome, which are not connected to the definition or characteristics of an omphalocele.