Jul 04, 2025
Rare Case of Newborn Passing Stool Through Belly Button
About the Patient
Baby Aqsa, a 1-month 3-day-old female child from Nuh, Haryana, daughter of Mr. Imraan, was brought to the hospital with a highly unusual and alarming condition—she was passing stool through a fleshy opening near her belly button.
The Medical Condition
Upon evaluation, she was diagnosed with a Patent Vitellointestinal Duct (PVID)—a rare congenital anomaly occurring in just 0.0063–0.067% of the population. This condition results from an incomplete involution of the vitellointestinal duct during fetal development, leading to an abnormal tract between the intestine and the umbilicus.
If left untreated, this could lead to umbilical ulceration, infection, sepsis, or even life-threatening complications.
Course of Treatment
Since the baby was stable and had no signs of immediate infection or obstruction, a planned surgery was carried out under priority.
Duration: 1.5 hours
Procedure: Excision of Patent VID and ileo-ileal anastomosis
The abnormal intestinal connection to the umbilicus was removed, and the intestine was repaired internally.
Surgical Team
The complex procedure was led by a Pediatric Surgeon, supported by a multidisciplinary team comprising a Pediatric Anaesthetist, NICU staff, OT assistants, and nursing personnel.
What Made the Surgery Noteworthy?
Scarless Technique: The surgery was done through the belly button, ensuring no visible scar—an important psychological and cosmetic factor, especially for a female child.
Postoperative Challenges Managed Well: Though the baby developed abdominal distension and signs of sepsis when feeds were initiated, she responded well to treatment.
Outcome
The baby recovered fully and was discharged by the 8th day, on full feeds and in a stable condition.
Post-Surgery Roadmap
The baby will continue to follow up at regular intervals in the OPD. Standard newborn care and gradual feeding escalation will be maintained.
A Word of Caution to Parents
Fleshy growth over the belly button is often mistaken for umbilical stump remnants. Many people apply powders, tie threads, or use home remedies, which can trigger life-threatening infections.
This case highlights the importance of correct diagnosis—as umbilical abnormalities can have a wide range of causes, and PVID requires timely and precise medical intervention.
Takeaway Message for Parents
If your newborn shows any discharge, swelling, or unusual tissue at the navel, consult a specialist immediately. Never ignore or self-treat belly button anomalies—they might be signs of rare but serious congenital conditions.
Baby Aqsa, a 1-month 3-day-old female child from Nuh, Haryana, daughter of Mr. Imraan, was brought to the hospital with a highly unusual and alarming condition—she was passing stool through a fleshy opening near her belly button.
The Medical Condition
Upon evaluation, she was diagnosed with a Patent Vitellointestinal Duct (PVID)—a rare congenital anomaly occurring in just 0.0063–0.067% of the population. This condition results from an incomplete involution of the vitellointestinal duct during fetal development, leading to an abnormal tract between the intestine and the umbilicus.
If left untreated, this could lead to umbilical ulceration, infection, sepsis, or even life-threatening complications.
Course of Treatment
Since the baby was stable and had no signs of immediate infection or obstruction, a planned surgery was carried out under priority.
Duration: 1.5 hours
Procedure: Excision of Patent VID and ileo-ileal anastomosis
The abnormal intestinal connection to the umbilicus was removed, and the intestine was repaired internally.
Surgical Team
The complex procedure was led by a Pediatric Surgeon, supported by a multidisciplinary team comprising a Pediatric Anaesthetist, NICU staff, OT assistants, and nursing personnel.
What Made the Surgery Noteworthy?
Scarless Technique: The surgery was done through the belly button, ensuring no visible scar—an important psychological and cosmetic factor, especially for a female child.
Postoperative Challenges Managed Well: Though the baby developed abdominal distension and signs of sepsis when feeds were initiated, she responded well to treatment.
Outcome
The baby recovered fully and was discharged by the 8th day, on full feeds and in a stable condition.
Post-Surgery Roadmap
The baby will continue to follow up at regular intervals in the OPD. Standard newborn care and gradual feeding escalation will be maintained.
A Word of Caution to Parents
Fleshy growth over the belly button is often mistaken for umbilical stump remnants. Many people apply powders, tie threads, or use home remedies, which can trigger life-threatening infections.
This case highlights the importance of correct diagnosis—as umbilical abnormalities can have a wide range of causes, and PVID requires timely and precise medical intervention.
Takeaway Message for Parents
If your newborn shows any discharge, swelling, or unusual tissue at the navel, consult a specialist immediately. Never ignore or self-treat belly button anomalies—they might be signs of rare but serious congenital conditions.
