Exomphalocele is a medical term used to describe a condition where the abdominal organs protrude through a hole in the abdominal wall. The word is spelled as "ex-om-phal-o-cele" with the primary stress on the second syllable. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ɛksɒmˈfæləsiːl/. The "ex-" prefix indicates "outward," the "omphal/o" root means "navel," and the "-cele" suffix means "hernia." Thus, "Exomphalocele" literally means a herniation of abdominal contents through the navel.
Exomphalocele is a medical term used to describe a congenital birth defect characterized by the presence of a hernia or sac in the abdominal wall. Specifically, it refers to a condition where the abdominal organs, such as the intestines, liver, and occasionally the spleen, protrude outside the body through a defect near the navel area. This results in a visible bulge or sac on the baby's abdomen.
Exomphalocele occurs during the early stages of fetal development when the abdominal wall does not close properly, allowing the organs to protrude through the abdominal defect. This condition is usually detected during routine prenatal ultrasound examinations.
The severity of exomphalocele can vary, ranging from a small, contained sac with no associated complications to a large sac that houses a significant portion of the abdominal organs. Its size and location can influence the extent of medical intervention required and the potential for associated complications.
Treatment for exomphalocele typically involves a multidisciplinary approach and depends on various factors, including the size of the hernia, the health of the organs involved, and the presence of other associated abnormalities. Surgical intervention is often necessary to repair the abdominal wall defect and return the protruding organs into the abdominal cavity. In some cases, however, a staged approach may be required due to the size and complexities associated with the condition.
With advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques, the long-term outcomes for infants with exomphalocele have improved, although they may still face potential challenges and require ongoing medical management. Regular follow-up care and support from a team of healthcare professionals specialized in pediatric surgery and neonatology are crucial for the successful management of exomphalocele.
The word "exomphalocele" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "exo" (ἔξω) meaning "outside" or "outward", and "omphalo" (ὀμφαλός) meaning "navel" or "belly button", and the suffix "-cele" (-κήλη) meaning "hernia" or "swelling". Therefore, "exomphalocele" refers to a type of hernia where the organs of the abdomen protrude through a defect in the abdominal wall near the navel, resulting in an external swelling.