Umbilical hernia in children

SIGNS / SYMPTOMS

Located in the midline of the upper abdomen, cephalad to the umbilicus, as a result of defects in the linea alba.

Defects may be multiple.

Unlikely to cause strangulation/obstruction as only pre-peritoneal fat herniates through the defect.

SIGNS / SYMPTOMS

May occur in a newborn with defects in both the umbilical fascia and peritoneum.

Intestines herniate into the substance of the cord itself, covered only by amnion.

SIGNS / SYMPTOMS

Results from a defect at the umbilicus, through which abdominal contents herniate.

Is covered only by an outer layer of amnion and inner layer of peritoneum.

Omphalocoeles are not covered by skin.