Abdominal wall defects

Abdominal Wall Defects (Congenital)

Overview

Abdominal wall defects are congenital (birth) conditions where a baby’s internal organs — such as the intestines, stomach, or liver — develop outside the abdominal cavity due to incomplete formation of the abdominal wall during pregnancy.

At Moolchand Hospitals, our team of superb physicians, fetal medicine experts, and pediatric surgeons provide comprehensive care for babies diagnosed with abdominal wall defects. Using cutting-edge technology, compassionate neonatal care, and a multidisciplinary approach, we ensure the best possible outcomes for newborns and families.

Types of Abdominal Wall Defects

The two most common types of abdominal wall defects are:

• Omphalocele:
  Organs such as the liver or intestines protrude through the umbilical cord, covered by a thin membrane.

• Gastroschisis:
  A defect usually next to the umbilicus (belly button), where the intestines protrude without any covering.

These conditions require immediate attention and expert surgical management after birth.

Causes & Risk Factors

While the exact cause is not always known, some risk factors include:

• Genetic or chromosomal abnormalities

• Maternal health conditions or infections during pregnancy

• Environmental or nutritional factors

• Family history of congenital defects

Our Fetal Medicine Department offers advanced prenatal screening to identify such conditions early and prepare for safe delivery and postnatal care.

Diagnosis

Abdominal wall defects are often detected during routine prenatal ultrasounds.
At Moolchand, expectant mothers undergo detailed imaging and diagnostic tests as part of our Prenatal and Fetal Care Services.

Post-delivery, our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provides immediate stabilization and support for newborns until surgical correction is safely performed.

Treatment & Management at Moolchand

Care for abdominal wall defects at Moolchand is multidisciplinary and holistic:

1. Immediate Newborn Stabilization

   • Gentle handling and sterile coverage of exposed organs

   • Breathing support, fluid management, and infection control

   • Gradual organ repositioning using protective “silo” methods when required

2. Surgical Repair

   • Performed by our Pediatric Surgery Team

   • Depending on the defect size, closure may be done immediately or in stages

   • Use of advanced surgical materials and imaging ensures precision and safety

3. Postoperative & Long-term Care

   • Intensive care in our NICU

   • Nutritional and developmental support

   • Regular follow-ups with neonatologists and pediatric surgeons

Why Choose Moolchand for Abdominal Wall Defect Care

• Superb Physicians: Experienced fetal medicine and pediatric surgery specialists.

• Cutting-edge Technology: 3D/4D ultrasound, neonatal imaging, and advanced surgical tools.

• Compassionate Care: Family-centered approach ensuring emotional and clinical support.

• Integrity & Affordable Excellence: Transparent advice and ethical care for every patient.

• Multidisciplinary Team: Collaboration across Fetal Medicine, Pediatrics, Neonatology, and Obstetrics.

Related Links

• Fetal Medicine & Prenatal Diagnostics

• Pediatric Surgery

• Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU)

• Obstetrics & Gynaecology

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