Umbilical granuloma: a new approach to an old problem

Umbilical granuloma (UG) is the most common umbilical abnormality in neonates, causing inflammation and drainage. Most fail to epithelialize and persist for more than 2 months. The common treatment is application of a 75% silver nitrate stick, usually repeated two to three times over a number of clinic visits. Burns have been reported following spillage onto the surrounding tissues. During a 10-year period, 302 neonates were treated for UG using excision and application of absorbable hemostatic materials. Healing was uneventful in all cases, and no complications have been encountered to date. This technique is simple, safe, and inexpensive, and obviates the need for repeated outpatient visits.