Post-laparoscopy Epidermal Inclusion Cyst of Umbilicus

Abstract

Background: Epidermal inclusion cysts can develop in the umbilicus following trauma or surgery. In this study, we aim to report cases of epidermal inclusion cysts occurring at the umbilicus in patients with a history of previous laparoscopic surgery.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted between January 2020 and May 2023 based on the medical records of patients who developed epidermal inclusion cysts in the umbilicus following laparoscopic surgery. Information regarding age, sex, symptoms, type of previous surgery, time elapsed from previous surgery to mass discovery, and postoperative complications was collected from a total of 15 patients.Results: Out of the 15 patients, 13 were female (86.7%) and two were male (13.3%). Symptoms such as discharge, redness, and tenderness were present in 12 patients (80.0%). Obstetric and gynecologic laparoscopic surgeries were performed on 10 patients (66.7%), whereas general surgical laparoscopic surgeries were performed on five patients (33.3%). The mean time from laparoscopic surgery to discovery of the umbilical mass was 43.5 months. Wound dehiscence occurred in one patient (6.7%) and seroma developed in another patient (6.7%) out of 15 patients.Conclusion: Achieving an ideal shape of the umbilicus after removal of epidermal inclusion cysts that occur at the umbilicus following laparoscopic procedures requires significant effort. Through this study, we aim to remind laparoscopic surgeons that epidermal inclusion cysts can develop at the umbilicus through laparoscopic interventions and thereby emphasize the importance of proper wound management.