Umbilical morphometry and centile curves in boys aged 1-14 years: Establishing reference values for umbilical reconstruction

Abstract

Umbilicoplasty is essential for the reconstruction of congenital malformations such as bladder-exstrophy-epispadias complex and gastroschisis. Reference values for umbilical morphometry are critical for anatomically acceptable outcomes.

Objective

To measure vertical height and width of the umbilicus in male participants aged 1–14 years and generate age-specific centile curves for umbilical reconstruction.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed computed tomography data from 887 male participants aged 1–14 years; those with previous abdominal surgeries or pathologies were excluded. Umbilical dimensions were measured in the coronal and axial planes. Generalized Additive Models for Location, Scale, and Shape modeling generated centile curves (3rd to 97th) for umbilical dimensions.

Results

The mean umbilical height and width were 16.67±5.54 mm and 16.5±4.52 mm, respectively, both positively correlating with age. The 50th percentile showed annual growth rates of ∼0.93 mm (height) and ∼0.75 mm (width). In younger children, the umbilicus appeared as an oblate spheroid; width exceeded height. Dimensions equalized around 4 years of age; thereafter, the umbilicus developed vertical ellipticity, with height exceeding width during puberty.

Conclusion

These findings provide insights into umbilical morphological development during childhood and adolescence, offering valuable reference data for umbilical reconstruction in case of various malformations and post-transumbilical procedures.