Giant Omphalocele: 23 Patients; Three Different Approaches

Abstract

Objective: Omphalocele is the ventral body wall maldevelopment. Early surgical interventions in the treatment of giant omphaloceles (GO) can increase morbidity and mortality. In this study, it was aimed to compare the advantages and disadvantages of primary closure, silo and vacuum assisted closure (VAC) methods used in omphalocele treatment. Materials and Methods: Three different treatment methods applied to 23 patients with giant omphalosis who were treated in our clinic between 2005 and 2020 were compared. Silo method was used in the treatment of 14 patients. Primary repair was performed in 7 patients. Mesh was used in 2 patients who underwent primary repair. The VAC was preferred for 2 patients. Treatments were discussed in terms of hospital stay, epithelization time, infections, and post-discharge problems. Results: Sepsis, ileus, gastroesophageal reflux and respiratory system problems were encountered after the silo method and primary repair, which are the classical methods of omphalocele treatment. VAC in technique, epithelization and healing were faster and only bilateral inguinal hernia developed as a complication. Conclusion: Minimizing complications with its effects that increase epithelization and prevent infection, VAC when other methods are considered in the treatment of giant omphalocele, it should be the first method that comes to mind.