What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• OMD Remnant
• OMD Remnant in the Umbilical Cord
• Remnant of Omphalomesenteric Duct

What is Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant? (Definition/Background Information)

• The omphalomesenteric duct (OMD) is a connection between the intestines and the yolk sac. Typically, it disappears between 9-16 weeks of pregnancy (gestation). However, in some cases, this does not happen and it results in a condition called Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant
• The condition is present in 1.5% of the placentas
• In majority of the cases, there are no significant signs and symptoms or complications associated with Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant
• Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant requires no treatment and the outcome is generally excellent

Who gets Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant is a condition that is observed during pregnancy. It may occur in pregnant women of all ages
• Women who are pregnant with male fetuses are affected more than those with female fetuses in a ratio of 4:1
• There is no racial, ethnic, or geographical predilection observed

What are the Risk Factors for Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no risk factors have been identified for Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant
• Research is being performed to identify the relevant risk factors
• The age of the pregnant mother is not a risk factor for the condition

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant is unknown
• Research is currently being performed to identify the relevant causative factors
• Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant is not caused by what the expectant mother does or does not do, either prior to or during pregnancy.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant?

Generally, there are no specific signs and symptoms associated with Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant, either in the pregnant mother or in the developing fetus.

• However, in some cases, there may be symptoms if the fetal bowel communicates through a persistent Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant
• Large remnants can cause swelling of the umbilical cord (umbilical edema)
• It can also lead to the formation of cysts in the umbilical cord
• Occasionally, a variety of tissues may be seen in Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant when examined by a pathologist under a microscope. The type of tissues include stomach, small intestine, pancreas, and liver

How is Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant Diagnosed?

• A diagnosis of Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant is made during placental examination under a microscope by the pathologist
• It cannot be detected using radiological studies during pregnancy, in a majority of cases

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant?

In majority of the cases, there are no complications associated with Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant.

• However, the condition is associated with intestinal atresia, Meckel's diverticulum, and herniation (protrusion) of the intestine through the umbilical cord
• Rarely, the presence of intestine in the Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant of the umbilicus may be damaged during clamping (cutting) of the umbilical cord after birth

How is Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant Treated?

• Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant is a benign condition that generally requires no treatment
• In case of any complications, supportive and symptomatic treatment is provided
• Rarely, additional treatment interventions, such as a surgery, may be necessary

How can Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant be Prevented?

Currently, there is no effective prevention of Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant available.

What is the Prognosis of Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant is excellent, since it is a benign condition that does not cause any significant signs and symptoms or complications in most cases
• In rare cases, the presence of large Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant may require additional treatment measures such as surgery

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Omphalomesenteric Duct Remnant:

When a pathologist examines the omphalomesenteric duct under a microscope, the presence of smooth muscle is observed around the duct.