The surgery is performed as soon as the infant is stable. The bowel is examined closely for signs of damage, or additional birth defects. Damaged or defective portions are removed, and the healthy edges are stitched together. The organs are replaced inside of the abdominal cavity and the incision is closed. If the abdominal cavity is too small, or the protruding organs are too swollen to allow the skin to be closed, a pouch is made from a sheet of plastic to cover and protect the organs.
Complete closure is done over a few weeks.
Surgery might be necessary to repair the abdominal muscles at a later time. Sometimes the infant's abdomen is smaller than normal. Placing the abdominal organs inside of the abdomen increases pressure within the abdominal cavity, and can cause breathing difficulties. The outcome depends on the amount of damage to the intestines, but most defects are successfully corrected with surgery. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition.