WHAT'S GASTROSCHISIS?

WHAT'S OMPHALOCELE?

SUPPORT GROUPS

GLOSSARY

Abdominal wall defects are relatively common surgical conditions of the newborn. Infants who are affected present with a portion of the intestinal tract (small or large bowel, stomach) or other organs outside the abdomen.

These organs protrude through a hole (the "abdominal wall defect") that can either be at the level of the belly button (omphalocele), or to the side of it (gastroschisis). The information on this site is meant as a guide for (future) parents of babies who may be affected by this condition.

You will also find some useful information regarding support groups for high-risk pregnancies, addresses of other centers you may wish to consult, and some practical information regarding our own Fetal Treatment Program. Click on the titles above to find out what abdominal wall defects are and how they are commonly managed. Underlined terms are explained in detail - just click on them. A medical review on this topic was recently published by Dr. Kurkchubasche in Medicine & Health/Rhode Island.