Overview
Clinical Frame
At birth, an abdominal wall defect is a visible surgical emergency, but the first threat is often physiologic rather than operative.
At birth, an abdominal wall defect is a visible surgical emergency, but the first threat is often physiologic rather than operative. Exposed bowel loses heat and fluid quickly; a disrupted omphalocele sac creates similar risks. The clinician must identify the defect, prevent further bowel injury, restore thermal and circulatory stability, decompress the stomach, and bring neonatology and pediatric surgery to the bedside. Definitive closure follows only after the infant and the abdominal contents can tolerate it safely.