The tale of two omphaloceles: Same treatment, different outcomes

Omphaloceles are one of the most common abdominal wall defects, and unfortunately multiple long-term medical problems can occur as a result. Specifically, other structural and chromosomal abnormalities may be present in the setting of an omphalocele. Treatment options vary depending on the size of the defect, with a common option being the “paint and wait” technique, in which a topical agent is applied that allows epithelialization over the amnion sac. Here, we discuss two such cases of omphalocele, and although both received the same treatment, very different outcomes occurred.