Herniorrhaphy in two newborn lambs with omphalocele

BACKGROUND: Omphalocele is an uncommon congenital defect in the ventral abdominal wall. Its etiology and pathogenesis are not certainly approved despite the numerous theories. CASES DESCRIPTION: Two newborn lambs with protruded membranous sacs from the umbilical region were presented. The herniated sac in both lambs contained loops of intestines and was covered by a thin membrane sac. The second lamb’s sac was disrupted, and its contents were severely congested. Physical and clinical examination of the cases revealed the congenital omphalocele. An immediate herniorrhaphy was performed for both after failing the gentle reduction of the sacs. All the preparing procedures and the surgical intervention were performed successfully. The first lamb recovered completely within 2 weeks after the operation. However, the second lamb died shortly after surgery. CONCLUSION: Omphalocele is an urgent case that needs instant treatment. Its prognosis is good unless the herniated sac is badly manipulated and its contents are proportionately large in size and highly congested.