Where should the normal position of the umbilicus be in the neonate?

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine the normal position of the umbilicus so as to offer a guide to improve cosmetic results after the repair of congenital abdominal wall defects.

Materials and methods: The position of the umbilical center was determined in 187 neonates with respect to the xiphoid process, the center of the umbilicus and the pubis. The distance between the xiphoid process and the center of the umbilicus (XU), between the pubis and the center of the umbilicus (PU) and from the xiphoid process to the pubis (XP) were measured while the babies lay in a supine position. The PU:XU ratio was calculated based on these measurements.

Results: Mean XP was 11.93±1.40 cm, mean XU was 7.41±1.08 cm and mean PU was 4.52±0.70 (mean±SD). The PU:XU ratio was calculated as 0.61±0.12 (ratio±SD).

Conclusion: We suggest that the PU:XU ratio should be 0.61 offering an ideal localization in umbilical reconstruction.