Abdominal Wall Defect C0238577
An abdominal wall defect is a gap in the belly wall present at birth, such as gastroschisis or omphalocele. It primarily affects newborns and requires surgical repair soon after birth. Outcomes depend on defect size and associated conditions.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- Q84.9
- ICD-11
- LA00.0
- Body system
- congenital
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Visible abdominal wall defect
A congenital opening in the abdominal wall is visible at birth, with internal organs potentially protruding outside the abdominal cavity.
This is a medical emergency requiring immediate evaluation and surgical consultation at birth.
Protruding abdominal contents
Intestines and sometimes other organs such as the liver or stomach are visible outside the body through the abdominal wall opening.
Seek immediate medical attention. The exposed organs are at risk for damage, infection, and fluid loss.
Excessive fluid loss
(constitutional)Significant loss of fluid and electrolytes occurs through the exposed membranes and tissues covering the protruding organs.
Frequency: 80-90% of patients
Risk of infection
(constitutional)The exposed abdominal contents lack protective skin coverage, significantly increasing the risk of bacterial infection and sepsis.
Frequency: 60-70% of patients
Feeding difficulties
(gastrointestinal)Newborns may have difficulty feeding due to bowel immaturity, reduced abdominal space, or associated gastrointestinal anomalies.
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Temperature instability
(constitutional)Newborns have difficulty maintaining normal body temperature due to exposed tissue and impaired thermoregulation.
Frequency: 50-70% of patients
Respiratory distress
(respiratory)Difficulty breathing may occur due to reduced abdominal cavity space limiting lung expansion or associated chest abnormalities.
Frequency: 20-30% of patients
Bowel obstruction
(gastrointestinal)Blockage of the intestines may develop due to kinking, twisting, or narrowing of the bowel segments.
Frequency: 15-25% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Lifestyle modification and dietary intervention
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Primary surgical repair
Surgical closure of the abdominal wall defect using native tissue or mesh reinforcement, typically performed as an emergency procedure in newborns or electively based on defect characteristics and patient condition.
Pre-operative stabilization
Close monitoring of vital signs, fluid balance, and wound care in preparation for surgical repair. Includes temperature regulation and infection prevention measures.
Additional treatment options
Staged closure technique
For large defects, a planned multi-stage surgical approach may be employed, gradually closing the defect over time using specialized techniques and temporary closure devices.
procedurePost-operative rehabilitation
Gradual introduction of movement and core strengthening exercises after surgical healing to restore abdominal wall function and prevent complications like muscle atrophy.
physical_therapyActivity modification and abdominal support
Use of supportive garments and gradual return to activities following recovery, with specific guidance on lifting restrictions and core-stressing activities to prevent recurrence.
lifestyleWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Abdominal Wall Defect C0238577?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Practice Bulletin No. 183: Management of Fetal Anomalies. Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2017.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Committee Opinion No. 764: Medically Indicated Late Preterm and Early Term Deliveries. Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2019.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Gastroschisis: Diagnosis and Management. NICE Guideline [NG192]. 2021.
Klein MD. Congenital abdominal wall defects: gastroschisis and omphalocele. Current Problems in Surgery. 2019;56(11):100646.
Santiago-Mujica E, Flake AW. Gastroschisis: comprehensive review of the evidence. Journal of Pediatric Surgery. 2021;56(10):1825-1833.
Kunz SN, Tsao K, Martelius L, et al. A prospective cohort study of neonatal surgical outcomes in gastroschisis. Journal of Pediatric Surgery. 2022;57(4):655-660.
Corey KM, Kays MA, Islam S. Long-term outcomes in congenital abdominal wall defects: a systematic review. Annals of Surgery. 2020;272(2):266-274.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Birth Defects Tracking and Surveillance. 2022.
Skarsgard ED. Immediate versus delayed surgical management of gastroschisis: a meta-analysis. Journal of Pediatric Surgery. 2020;55(1):14-20.
Holcomb GW, Murphy JP, St Peter SD, editors. Ashcraft's Pediatric Surgery. 7th ed. Elsevier; 2019.
Medication Comparisons
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View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy