Umbilical reconstruction: a review of techniques

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.