title: Umbilical reconstruction: a review of techniques.
abstract: Whilst of minimal functional importance, the umbilicus is a key aesthetic landmark of the anterior abdominal wall and its absence or distortion a frequent cause for concern and patient complaint. For such an anatomically simple structure, the plethora of techniques described indicates either an unappreciated complexity or the lack of a universally appropriate procedure. In order to rationalise decision-making and assist with the surgical management of umbilical reconstruction, we present a summary of the literature and propose a classification system based on reconstructive technique.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Reconstructive & Cosmetic Surgery, 1 Parkside, Ravenscourt Park, London W6 0UU, UK. jamess@med.usyd.edu.au
authors.forename: J P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Southwell-Keely
authors.forename: M G
authors.initials: MG
authors.lastname: Berry
mesh_terms: D034861:Abdominal Wall / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013536:Suture Techniques; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014472:Umbilicus / Q000601:surgery*