Umbilical Hernia

When the umbilical ring is weak or large, an umbilical hernia can result. With increased abdominal pressure (the infant was crying for this photo), a bulge of intra-abdominal contents through the ring can be seen. This does not require treatment, as most hernias of this type resolve spontaneously during the first year of life. Complications, such as strangulation of bowel, are extremely rare. Surgical correction is only considered for those who have large defects that are still open at several years of age.

photo by Janelle Aby, MD