ZORRO: Z Omphaloplasty Repair for Omphalocele

To suggest a novel technique for omphalocele closure which uses the circular base of the umbilical cord, thus allowing for a more physiological healing process and natural-looking scar.

Among 16 neonates operated for omphalocele between 2011 and 2016, 12 were closed with a one-stage procedure using a Z omphaloplasty (ZORRO). Median gestational age was 36.5 weeks; median birth weight was 3210 g. The umbilical arteries were divided and ligated outside the peritoneal cavity above the parietal musculocutaneous plane. The upper part of the defect was closed vertically in the midline, while the lower part was closed in a circular fashion by imbricating 2 lateral cutaneous Z flaps thus forming a new cordonal base.

The postoperative course was uneventful in all cases. The reconstructed cordonal bases healed as would a normal umbilical cord, with central umbilication surrounded by healthy skin. With a median follow-up period of 11 months, the umbilicus was in the normal position, with a 0.6 xyphoumbilical/xyphopubic ratio.

This technique mimics the natural necrosis mechanism and physiological healing of the umbilicus thus allowing for an esthetic and "natural looking" umbilicus.