The midgut normally herniates into the umbilical cord at the 6th week and returns to the abdomen by which week?
- A 8th week
- B 12th week
- C 10th week ✓
- D 14th week
Correct answer: C. 10th week
Explanation
Physiological umbilical herniation of the midgut loop occurs between weeks 6 and 10 of development, when the rapidly growing intestines temporarily herniate through the umbilical ring because the abdominal cavity is too small. The loop undergoes 270° counterclockwise rotation around the superior mesenteric artery as it returns at week 10. Failure of this return results in omphalocele, while failure of normal rotation produces intestinal malrotation.
Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.