How I do it: A novel umbilicoplasty technique using the preserved umbilical cord during primary bladder exstrophy repair


Cansaran S., CELAYİR A., Çakmak M. H., Ayvaz O. D.

Journal of Pediatric Urology, cilt.22, sa.5, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 22 Sayı: 5
  • Basım Tarihi: 2026
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2026.106003
  • Dergi Adı: Journal of Pediatric Urology
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, EMBASE, MEDLINE
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Bladder exstrophy, Umbilico-plasty, Umbilical cord, Neonate, Surgical technique
  • Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

In bladder exstrophy (BE), the umbilical cord is attached to the superior edge of the bladder plate and is usually discarded, leaving patients without a visible umbilicus. We describe a technique that preserves the umbilical cord during primary BE repair to reconstruct a natural-appearing umbilicus without additional skin incisions. The preserved umbilical vein embedded in Wharton's jelly is passed retrogradely through a preperitoneal tunnel to a midline skin opening and secured to create a stable umbilical depression. In five neonates followed for a median of 5 years, all achieved stable cosmetic results with no technique-related complications or need for revision.