Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant: A Case Report

Abstract

The ductus omphaloentericus, also known as the ductus vitellinus or omphalomesenteric duct (OMD), is an embryonic structure that connects the yolk sac to the midgut lumen of the developing fetus. OMD plays a crucial role in early fetal development by transferring nutrients from the yolk sac to the growing embryo. The OMD usually involutes between the seventh and ninetieth week of fetal development. However, if the duct fails to regress completely, remnants can persist, leading to congenital anomalies that can lead to complications like bleeding, inflammation, or obstruction. Treatment typically involves surgical intervention to remove or correct the anomaly. We present a 15-day-old male newborn who was referred to the emergency department with an umbilical lump protruding from the umbilicus, which raised suspicion of an omphalocele. Surgical exploration was undertaken, and the OMD was found and excised. After improving the clinical condition, on the 10-day hospital stay, the newborn was discharged home without complications.

Keywords

• omphalomesenteric duct
• congenital anomaly
• newborn
• surgery