Omphalocele in a Red Holstein calf

A newborn, female Red Holstein calf was referred because of a hairless mass detected in the umbilical region by the owner immediately after birth. The umbilical mass was found to be an omphalocele containing parts of the small intestine, abomasum and liver. Surgical repair of the omphalocele was performed. Recovery of the calf was uneventful. This case highlights the clinical findings and surgical treatment as well as the importance of the initial first care and handling of newborns with a case of omphalocele. Knowledge about this birth defect is of great importance to the veterinarian as providing correct advice to the farmer when possible omphalocele is reported will improve the prognosis.