What type of hernia may result from congenital defects in the ventral abdominal wall?

Gastroschisis is a type of hernia that occurs due to congenital defects in the ventral abdominal wall, specifically where the abdominal muscles do not close properly, allowing the intestines to protrude through the abdominal wall. This defect typically occurs to the right of the umbilical cord and is evident at birth, often requiring immediate medical intervention.

In contrast, an incisional hernia typically results from a weakness or defect in the abdominal wall at the site of a previous surgical incision, making it acquired rather than congenital. An epigastric hernia, which also occurs in the upper abdominal wall, can arise due to weakened abdominal wall tissues but is not specifically associated with congenital defects. Diastasis recti involves the separation of the left and right abdominal muscles and is usually related to increases in intra-abdominal pressure, rather than a defect in abdominal wall formation. Thus, the connection of gastroschisis with congenital defects in the ventral abdominal wall clearly differentiates it as the correct answer.