A male neonate is born with an omphalocele (shown in Figure below). This entity can be distinguished from gastroschisis, because in an omphalocele, the protrusion is:Giant omphalocele in a newborn male.
In omphalocele (see figure below), the swelling is covered by a membrane formed by the peritoneum, Wharton's jelly, and amnion. The membrane is transparent, and underlying intestine can be seen. The other features listed are characteristic of gastroschisis. In gastroschisis, the protrusion is not covered by a membrane and the other features listed apply.Radiograph shows large swelling due to gastroschisis. (Multiple loops of bowel lying on the right side and outside of the abdomen)Radiograph shows large swelling due to gastroschisis. (Bowel loops wrapped in synthetic bag to reduce bowel sequentially.)
Not covered by a sac
A defect in the abdominal musculature
Associated with an umbilicus attached to the abdominal wall musculature
Associated with partial or complete malrotation of the bowel
Hernia