Quantitative evaluation of pediatric umbilical loop stomas: 2 decades of experience from a single institution

This 22-year retrospective study of 96 pediatric patients demonstrates that umbilical stomas offer superior cosmetic outcomes compared to traditional abdominal stomas, with significantly better scar scores on validated assessment scales. The technique provides comparable complication rates while yielding nearly invisible scars, making it a valuable option for temporary pediatric ostomies when appropriate patient selection is applied.