Abdominal wall defects

Abdominal Wall Defects in Pediatric Surgery

Abdominal wall defects are critical conditions that affect the integrity of the abdominal wall in infants and children. These defects can lead to serious complications, requiring specialized surgical intervention. The Division of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) is dedicated to diagnosing and treating these complex conditions.

What Are Abdominal Wall Defects?

Abdominal wall defects are congenital anomalies where the abdominal wall does not close properly during fetal development. This can result in various forms of hernias or openings in the abdominal wall, most commonly including:

• Omphalocele: A condition where the intestines or other organs protrude through the abdominal wall at the base of the umbilical cord.
• Gastroschisis: A defect where the intestines are found outside of the body, exiting through a hole next to the belly button.
• Umbilical hernia: Occurs when part of the intestine bulges through the abdominal muscles near the belly button.

Importance of Specialized Care

The management of abdominal wall defects requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving pediatric surgeons, urologists, and other specialists. At SSMC, our team is equipped with advanced surgical techniques and technologies to ensure optimal outcomes for our young patients.

Surgical Interventions

Surgical repair is often necessary to correct these defects. The timing and type of surgery depend on several factors, including:

• The specific type of defect
• The overall health of the child
• Presence of associated anomalies

Key surgical techniques include:

1. Primary Repair: Closing the defect directly during surgery.
2. Silo Technique: Used primarily for gastroschisis, where a protective covering is placed over the exposed organs, allowing them to gradually return to the abdomen.
3. Tissue Expansion: In some cases, tissue expanders may be used to facilitate closure by stretching surrounding skin.

Postoperative Care and Follow-Up

After surgery, children require careful monitoring and follow-up care to ensure proper healing and development. This may include:

• Regular check-ups with pediatric surgeons
• Nutritional support
• Physical therapy as needed

Abdominal wall defects pose significant challenges but can be effectively managed with timely intervention and comprehensive care. The Division of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City is committed to providing exceptional care for children with these conditions, ensuring they receive the best possible outcomes. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact our team.  

Why choose SSMC?

At Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) in Abu Dhabi, the Division of Paediatric Surgery & Paediatric Urology offers world-class care backed by cutting-edge technology and an expert multidisciplinary team. This premier medical institution provides comprehensive care for a wide array of paediatric surgical and urological conditions, ensuring the highest standards of medical excellence. Expertise Backed by American and British Board-Certified Surgeons Our team of highly skilled surgeons is certified by American and British boards, ensuring the delivery of exceptional care. With extensive experience and training in treating paediatric patients, they are capable of managing both routine and complex conditions with precision. Advanced Facilities for Paediatric Care At SSMC, we pride ourselves on offering state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• Specialised Paediatric Operating Rooms: Designed for optimal patient care and safety.
• Minimally Invasive Suites: Equipped with the latest high-definition imaging technology, advanced image capture systems, and ergonomic designs to enhance the surgical experience.

Neonatal & Paediatric Intensive Care Units (NICU & PICU) SSMC is home to one of the most advanced Neonatal and Paediatric Intensive Care Units (NICU and PICU) in the region. These units are staffed by a team of highly trained healthcare professionals dedicated to providing premium-quality, compassionate care. Comprehensive Paediatric Surgical and Urological Services Our paediatric surgical team provides a wide range of services using minimally invasive techniques. These include: General Paediatric Surgery

• Hernia Repair
• Appendectomy (removal of the appendix)

Specialised Surgical Services

• Hepatobiliary Surgery (liver and bile ducts)
• Pancreatic Surgery
• Paediatric Thoracic Surgery, including Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS)

Neonatal and Advanced Urological Procedures

• Neonatal Surgery
• Paediatric Urology, including:
  • Pyeloplasty (kidney reconstruction)
  • Ureteric Reimplantation (surgical repair of the ureters)
  • Endourology (diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract conditions)

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures

• Upper and Lower Gastrointestinal Endoscopies (to view and treat internal body conditions)
• Bronchoscopies (inspection and treatment of the lungs and airways)

Complex Surgeries

• Fundoplication (to treat acid reflux)
• Lung Resections (partial or complete removal of the lung)
• Paediatric Vascular Access Procedures

Multidisciplinary Approach to Patient Care Our paediatric surgical team collaborates closely with other divisions, including:

• Paediatrics
• Neonatology
• Radiology

This multidisciplinary approach ensures holistic, patient-centered care for complex paediatric surgical conditions, making SSMC a trusted healthcare provider in the UAE and beyond. Why SSMC is the Right Choice for Your Child

• Highly Skilled Experts: American and British board-certified surgeons.
• Advanced Technology: Cutting-edge operating rooms and minimally invasive suites.
• Comprehensive Services: From general surgery to advanced urological procedures.
• Holistic Care: Collaborative care model for the best outcomes.

Choose Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City for exceptional paediatric surgical and urological care, where compassion meets innovation