vitelline duct (patent)

Last reviewed 01/2018

Persistence of the vitelline duct permits an intermittent discharge of enteric contents from the umbilicus which is usually noticed in the first few days of life. It is a very rare abnormality and may be associated with an umbilical polyp.

It should be treated early with laparotomy or laparoscopy and excision of the duct to avoid intussusception or volvulus.