Surgical correction of omphalocele in local goat breed (Beetal) of Jhang, Punjab: A case study

Abstract

Omphalocele is a rare congenital condition where closure defects in the abdominal wall at the umbilical ring lead to the protrusion of intestinal or other visceral organs, covered by a thin epithelial layer. The developmental mechanism of this condition is not fully understood, and various theories have been proposed to explain it. This study presents a case of omphalocele in a newborn female black goat kid, detailing its clinical presentation, surgical management, and postoperative care. The surgical procedure involved meticulous preparation of the surgical site, administration of local anesthesia, and careful repositioning of the intestines, liver, and a portion of the spleen. Excess skin and the amnion membrane were removed to facilitate safe repositioning, and the umbilical ring was excised to widen the opening. The abdominal wall layers were meticulously closed using appropriate suture materials. The kid’s postoperative recovery was uneventful, with normal vital signs, fecal passage, and feeding behavior observed. The study discusses omphalocele in comparison to other abdominal abnormalities and explores potential developmental mechanisms. The authors emphasize the importance of immediate surgical intervention despite varying prognoses associated with this condition. The study underscores the significance of surgical treatment for omphalocele cases in newborn goat kids, providing hope for affected animals and valuable insights for veterinary professionals. Although the exact prevalence of omphalocele remains uncertain due to unreported cases, this report demonstrates successful surgical correction and the potential for curing the condition if diagnosed and treated promptly. Further research is needed to fully understand the genetic and environmental factors contributing to omphalocele and its impact on livestock.