title: Simple technique for identifying the linea alba in lower abdominal incisions.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Identification of the true midline in infra-umbilical longitudinal incisions is often difficult. Traditional methods of identification can be unreliable.
  
  
  METHODS
  An alternative technique for identifying the linea alba, based on the attachments of the median umbilical ligament, is presented.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The technique is both reliable and reproducible in identifying the midline.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This technique is recommended as a means of avoiding muscle incision and facilitating wound closure.
authors.affiliation: Department of Urology, St George Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. bariols@yahoo.com.au
authors.forename: Simon V
authors.initials: SV
authors.lastname: Bariol
authors.forename: Paul
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Lambrakis
authors.forename: Paul J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Cozzi
mesh_terms: D034861:Abdominal Wall / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000601:surgery*; D005205:Fascia / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D000071938:Fasciotomy; D006801:Humans; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000379:methods*