[A case of patent urachus]

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Congenital patent urachus is a rare condition resulting from the incomplete obliteration of the urachus, potentially leading to umbilical discharge and infection.
• Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing patent urachus and preventing complications.

Observation:

• A 12-month-old boy presented with persistent watery discharge from the umbilicus.
• Diagnostic imaging, including cystography and indigocarmine excretion tests, confirmed a direct communication between the urinary bladder and the umbilicus.
• No other significant congenital abnormalities were detected in the patient.

Findings:

• The case involved a successful radical surgical excision of the patent urachus.
• A review of 164 reported cases of urachal disorders in Japan was conducted.
• Analysis included the incidence, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategies for urachal anomalies.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of diagnostic imaging in identifying urachal anomalies.
• The review provides valuable insights into the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of urachal disorders in Japan.
• Effective surgical management is key to resolving congenital patent urachus and improving patient outcomes.