Anomalies of the abdominal wall, more commonly known as abdominal wall defects, are the birth (congenital) defects that allow the protruding stomach or intestine.
During the early fetal development stages in the womb, the stomach and intestines begin to develop outside the abdominal cavity.
In subsequent stages of development the abdominal wall forms and encloses them.
In some cases, either the umbilical opening is too large, doesn't form properly or doesn't close so that the stomach or intestines stay out or go through the abdominal wall.
There are several potential causes for the abnormalities that remain obscure.
Currently, the cause, or causes, of anomalies of the abdominal wall are largely unknown.
Unfortunately there are no tell-tale symptoms exhibited by the mother that reliably foretell that defects are present in the fetus.
At birth, the condition is usually obvious, because the base of the umbilical cord at the navel is enlarged or, in more severe circumstances, this enlarged portion of umbilical cord actually contains portions of internal organs.
Before birth, an ultrasound can detect the problem.
With similar external birth defects, another being cleft palate, it is always necessary to look for signs of other birth defects since multiple defects are quite common.
Abdominal wall defects can be effectively treated by surgical repair.
Unless there are associated anomalies, the surgical procedure is not complicated.
The organs are normal, just misplaced.
However, if the defect is large and a substantial portion of interior organs are protruding, it can be difficult to integrate all the viscera into the infant abdominal cavity.
The normal prognosis after surgical treatment of this condition is good and without further complications.
However, as much as 10% of patients with severe or multiple defects will not survive.
The organs are usually normal, viable and fully operational.
The problem is getting them back into the tiny abdominal area.
The condition is, in fact, a breach of the abdominal wall that only requires replacement and repair of the passageway or tear through which it occurred.
Post-surgery, increased pressure in the stretched abdomen can impair the function of the affected organs.
Some but not all birth defects can be prevented through early and regular prenatal care, proper nutrition (including pre-natal supplements) and a general healthy lifestyle.
Of course, mothers-to-be should strictly avoid any unnecessary drugs and chemicals (including foods with long shelf lives and therefore high concentrations of preservatives), tobacco, and alcohol.