From a historical curiosity at the turn of the century, today omphalocele and gastroschisis can be corrected with good results, thanks to innovative techniques and better understanding of the newborn. Associated anomalies consist mainly of malrotation, Meckel's diverticulum, intestinal atresia, congenital heart defects, and genitourinary abnormalities. Nonoperative management in certain centers has been sucessful for the very large omphaloceles with an intact sac; however, a secondary procedure is necessary. In the past 10 years, the use of Silastic sheeting and total parenteral nutrition has allowed early repair of even the most severe cases, with excellent end results and low mortality.