Name of the Procedure:

Umbilectomy, Omphalectomy, Excision of Umbilicus (separate procedure)

Summary

An umbilical excision, also known as an umbilectomy or omphalectomy, is a surgical procedure in which the navel (belly button) is removed. This procedure can be performed for various medical or cosmetic reasons.

Purpose

• Medical Condition or Problem: The procedure is often carried out to address umbilical hernias, infections, tumors, or other abnormalities involving the navel.
• Goals or Expected Outcomes: The primary goal is to resolve the underlying medical condition causing discomfort, pain, or a risk to health. In cases of cosmetic procedures, the goal is to improve the navel's appearance.

Indications

• Presence of umbilical hernia causing discomfort or complications.
• Recurrent infections or abscesses at the navel site.
• Umbilical tumors or other growths.
• Excessive scarring or deformities requiring cosmetic correction.
• Patient preference for cosmetic reasons.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Patients may be asked to fast (no food or drink) for 8 hours before the procedure if it involves general anesthesia. Specific medication adjustments may be recommended.
• Diagnostic Tests or Assessments: Preoperative blood tests, imaging such as ultrasound or CT scan if a hernia or tumor is suspected, and a thorough medical history review.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient will receive local anesthesia (for minor procedures) or general anesthesia (for more complex cases).
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made around or through the navel.
3. Excision: The navel is carefully removed, and any underlying hernia, infection, or abnormal tissue is addressed.
4. Closure: The incision site is then closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.

• Tools and Equipment: Scalpel, sutures, sterile gauze, clamps.
• Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)
• Surgical assistant

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, scarring, and pain at the incision site.
• Rare Risks: Adverse reaction to anesthesia, damage to surrounding tissues, hernia recurrence, and poor wound healing.
• Complications Management: Infections may be treated with antibiotics; severe cases may require surgical intervention.

Benefits

• Resolution of underlying medical issues such as hernias or infections.
• Improved appearance if done for cosmetic reasons.
• Relief from discomfort and pain.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Follow your surgeon's instructions, including wound care and infection prevention.
• Recovery Time: Generally, patients can return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks, but full recovery may take a few more weeks.
• Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and swimming until the doctor advises it's safe.
• Follow-up Appointments: Typically, a follow-up visit is scheduled to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options: Watchful waiting for minor hernias, antibiotics for infections, or less invasive procedures like laparoscopy.
• Pros and Cons: Alternatives may have fewer risks but might not be as effective for resolving certain conditions.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: If local anesthesia is used, you may feel pulling or pressure but no pain. General anesthesia will ensure you are asleep and pain-free.
• After the Procedure: Expect some soreness at the site. Pain management includes prescribed pain medications, and care should be taken to keep the area clean and dry.