A neonate has a small reducible protrusion through a defined ring at the umbilicus. His pediatrician indicates to the parents that this will likely close spontaneously. Which of the following congenital malformations is present?: (A) Umbilical hernia, (B) Symptomatic patent urachus, (C) Patent omphalomesenteric duct, (D) Omphalocele
Answer is A. In most case, an umbilical hernia closes spontaneously by age 4 and requires no surgery unless there is incarceration. A symptomatic patent urachus (drainage of urine at the umbilicus) is typically surgically excised. A patent omphalomesenteric duct (Meckel diveiculum) is promptly repaired to minimize the potential for intestinal obstruction or prolapse. Omphalocele and gastroschisis are defects that require surgical repair.