When the cord conceals more: A case series of complex umbilical cord hernias

Umbilical cord hernia (UCH) is an abdominal wall defect causing herniation of intra-abdominal organs through the umbilical ring, ranging from small, isolated defects to large ones with anomalies. We present five neonatal cases illustrating this range, diagnostic findings and associated malformations. Surgical management varied based on defect size, involved viscera and comorbidities, from primary closure to staged repair. Individualised approaches generally yielded favourable outcomes, though anomalies influenced prognosis. This series highlights UCH’s heterogeneity and the importance of thorough pre-operative assessment and tailored surgery for optimal results.