Innovative and cost-effective management of large omphalocele
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Institute of Child Health, Kolkata 700 017, India. pargupta@vsnl.com
Background/Purpose:
The aim of this study was to develop a method of management of large omphalocele, with easily available inexpensive materials. The efficacy of using the plastic of urine collection bag and paper stapler, in creating the "silo" for the management of 3 newborns with such defects, were assessed.
Methods:
All operations were done within 36 hours of birth. A silo was created with the plastic of a sterile urine collection bag, which was stapled with a paper stapler at its free margin. The omphalocele was gradually reduced every 24 to 48 hours, using the stapler, until the contents were reduced, when the abdominal wall was repaired.
Results:
The mean time taken to close the abdominal defect was 34 days. All patients could be breast-fed from 48 hours after the first stage is done. Rooming in was done by day 7. None of the babies required assisted ventilation.
Conclusion:
This method is simple and cost-effective, using minimally expensive, easily available materials.
