anterior abdominal wall defects
Last reviewed 01/2018
The intestines may fail to return to the abdomen in 1 in 6000 pregnancies.
There are three forms of this major congenital malformation:
- exomphalos or omphalocoele
- gastroschisis
- body stalk anomaly
Prenatal diagnosis is possible with ultrasound backed up by amniotic fluid and maternal serum testing for alpha-fetoprotein.
Exomphalos and gastroschisis are correctable surgically.