Abstract

Two most common abdominal wall defects are omphalocele and gastroschisis. Their repair and management need multidisciplinary expertise.

Omphalocele is a congenital anomaly located the umblicus, There is a sac which is covered eviscerated organs such as the small bowel, colon, spleen, liver and gonads.

In gastroschisis abdominal wall defect is seen as fullthickness and usually on the right of umblicus.

Omphalocele occurs 1: 5000 and gastroschisis 1: 2500 births.

These anomalies detected antenatally due to fetal ultrasound and MRI. In some cases maternal alpha fetoprotein and amniotic asetinkolinesteraz level may be elevated.

Omphalocele are associated with other anomalies. These are cardiac, chromosomal and central nervous system. The most common associated anomaly with gastroschisis is bowel atresia.

These anomalies can be detected antenatal ultrasound. The antenatal diagnosis allows planning delivery. The defect can be closed primary or staged surgical approach.

The prognosis is related to associated anomalies and their severity in omphalocele, whereas the degree of bowel injury in gastroschisis.

Significant associated anomalies or intestinal dysfunction may result morbidity and mortality.