Laparoscopic excision of symptomatic urachal anomalies: a technique to restore the natural appearance of the umbilicus.

BACKGROUND

Recent reports on laparoscopic surgery for urachal anomalies have not described any techniques to restore the natural appearance of the umbilicus. In this report, we present a simple technique that enables complete resection of urachal anomalies while preserving the natural appearance of the umbilicus.

METHODS

Laparoscopic excision of symptomatic urachal anomalies was performed for 4 men and 2 women. After dissecting the urachal lesion along the preperitoneal plane toward the umbilicus, the cephalic side of the lesion was ligated and the skin at the base of the umbilicus was divided while compressing the anterior abdominal wall to ensure complete removal of the lesion.

RESULTS

The laparoscopic procedure was successfully completed with minimal blood loss, and the umbilicus could be restored to its natural appearance in all the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report to describe a procedure for restoring the natural appearance of the umbilicus. This simple, alternative approach yields better cosmetic results and, therefore, will be useful, especially in younger patients.