Mediastinal drainage through the umbilicus to avoid a conspicuous abdominal scar

Sternal reconstruction of chest deformities can lead to conspicuous scar formation at the site of the mediastinal drainage tube. This report presents our experience over the past two years using an improved drainage technique to reduce operative scars. This involves passing a drainage tube through the umbilicus after passing it through the anterior sheath of the rectus abdominis muscle. Good cosmetic results were achieved with no perioperative morbidity. This can also be used in thoracic surgery and can improve the aesthetic results, especially in women and children.