Characteristics and Outcome and the Omphalocele Circumference/abdominal Circumference Ratio in Prenatally Diagnosed Fetal Omphalocele

Objective: To evaluate the outcome of fetuses with prenatally diagnosed omphalocele and to investigate the predictive value of the omphalocele circumference/abdominal circumference (OC/AC) ratio - a measure for the relative size of the omphalocele.

Materials And Methods: This study includes all fetuses prenatally diagnosed with omphalocele at our centre between 1995 and 2007. Medical records and footage of ultrasound examinations were reviewed. Omphalocele was classified in four groups: isolated, chromosomal, syndromic, and multiple anomalies.

Results: Eighty-eight cases were identified: 21 (24%) were isolated and 67 had additional structural anomalies. Of the 44 fetuses (50%) with chromosomal anomalies, 2 had omphalocele as a solitary finding. Fifty-three pregnancies (60%) were terminated because of the size of the lesion or associated structural or chromosomal anomalies. Twenty-one cases resulted in a live birth, of which 17 were vaginal deliveries (81%, all uncomplicated) including 3 cases of giant omphalocele (≥5 cm). The OC/AC ratio was found predictive for herniation of the liver, respiratory insufficiency and type of surgical reconstruction. Currently, 12/88 fetuses (14%) are alive and well, including 2 infants with multiple anomalies.

Conclusion: Identification of omphalocele should arouse suspicion of genetic abnormalities, even in cases that appear isolated. The OC/AC ratio may influence counselling regarding the postnatal course.