INTRODUCTION: The Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity (DIGEST) scale was developed to evaluate the safety, efficiency, and overall pharyngeal swallowing performance in patients with dysphagia (DIGESTs, DIGESTe,...INTRODUCTION: The Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity (DIGEST) scale was developed to evaluate the safety, efficiency, and overall pharyngeal swallowing performance in patients with dysphagia (DIGESTs, DIGESTe, and DIGESTt, respectively). Although various types of swallowing dysfunction are encountered in children with esophageal atresia (EA), oropharyngeal dysphagia poses risk for aspiration. Therefore, a retrospective study was performed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of swallowing by using DIGEST score in children with EA. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty-nine EA patients were included. The demographic features, respiratory problems, results, and outcomes of surgical treatment were evaluated from medical records. The videofluoroscopic swallowing evaluation investigated for both airway protection and bolus residuals at the level of vallecula, posterior pharyngeal wall, and pyriform sinus at liquid and pudding consistencies. The penetration and aspiration scale (PAS) was used to define penetration and aspiration severity, and DIGEST was used to evaluate DIGESTs, DIGESTe, and DIGESTt. RESULTS: The median age of the patients were 13 months (7-39 months), and male-to-female ratio was 25:14. Sixty-seven percent of patients were type-C EA and 61% of them has associated anomalies; 38% of patients had aspiration (PAS = 6-8) in liquids and 10% in pudding consistency. Life-threatening/profound swallowing dysfunction in DIGESTe (DIGEST = 4) was seen in 13% ( = 5) of patients; 40% of EA patients showed severe problems in DIGESTt. CONCLUSION: DIGEST is a valid and reliable tool to define the efficacy and safety of swallowing in children with EA.
INTRODUCTION: Management of patients with total colonic aganglionosis (TCA) is challenging for pediatric surgeons. The purpose of this study was to review our institution's 20-year experience regarding long-term outcome...INTRODUCTION: Management of patients with total colonic aganglionosis (TCA) is challenging for pediatric surgeons. The purpose of this study was to review our institution's 20-year experience regarding long-term outcomes and multidisciplinary team management of these patients after an ileorectal Duhamel pull-through procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective review was conducted for all patients diagnosed with TCA in our tertiary institution. Data were collected on demographics, clinical presentation, complications, need for additional surgery, and long-term effects on bowel function. RESULTS: Of a total of 202 patients with Hirschsprung's disease, 13 were diagnosed with TCA (6.4%). Clinical presentation was variable. Eleven presented in neonatal period with distal bowel obstruction and two presented with constipation in early infancy. Ileorectal Duhamel pull-through was performed in all patients. Median follow-up was 13 years. Eleven are toilet trained, of whom five are fully continent. Six continue to have problems with bowel continence or constipation. One developed recurrent episode of Hirschsprung's associated enterocolitis. Two patients had stoma re-established. Patients experiencing difficulties in bowel function are jointly managed by a multidisciplinary team consisting of surgeons, gastroenterologists, pediatric psychologists, and clinical nurse specialists. CONCLUSION: TCA can be associated with significant long-term morbidity. Nearly half of the patients in this series have ongoing problems with bowel continence requiring a permanent stoma in some. Diligent follow-up coupled with inputs of a multidisciplinary team has greatly helped manage these complex patients in our institution.
OBJECTIVE: Etiology of vocal cord paralysis (VCP) and laryngeal dysfunction may be congenital or surgical trauma of recurrent and superior laryngeal nerves. We assessed the incidence, risk factors, and morbidity of VCP...OBJECTIVE: Etiology of vocal cord paralysis (VCP) and laryngeal dysfunction may be congenital or surgical trauma of recurrent and superior laryngeal nerves. We assessed the incidence, risk factors, and morbidity of VCP after repair of esophageal atresia (EA). METHODS: Medical records of 201 EA patients from 2000 to 2022 were reviewed for this retrospective study. Postrepair vocal cord examination (VCE) included awake nasolaryngeal fiberoscopy by otolaryngologist or laryngoscopy under spontaneous breathing anesthesia. Before 2017, postoperative VCE was performed in symptomatic patients only and routinely after 2017. MAIN RESULTS: Overall, VCE was performed on 79 (38%) patients (52 asymptomatic), whereas 122 asymptomatic patients underwent no VCE. VCP was diagnosed in 32 of 79 patients (right 12, left 10, and bilateral 10; symptomatic 25 and asymptomatic unilateral 7) corresponding with extrapolated overall VCP incidence of 16 to 24% among 201 patients including asymptomatic ones. Ten patients (bilateral VCP 8 and left VCP 2) required tracheostomy. Of 10 patients with bilateral VCP, three underwent laryngotracheal expansion surgery (left VC lateralization in one and laryngoplasty in two with acquired subglottic stenosis), three remained tracheostomy dependent, three were off tracheostomy, and one died of complications after redo esophageal reconstruction. All patients with unilateral VCP managed without tracheostomy. Cervical dissection or ostomy formation was a major risk factor of VCP. CONCLUSION: Repair of EA is associated with a considerable risk of VCP and associated morbidity. Cervical EA surgery significantly increased the risk of VCP. Bilateral VCP may eventually require laryngotracheal expansion surgery.
INTRODUCTION: Neonates with lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) experience high morbidity and mortality associated with the development of chronic kidney disease. The prenatal detection rate for LUTO is less than 50%...INTRODUCTION: Neonates with lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) experience high morbidity and mortality associated with the development of chronic kidney disease. The prenatal detection rate for LUTO is less than 50%, with late or missed diagnosis leading to delayed management and long-term sequelae in the remainder. We aimed to explore the trends in prenatal detection and management at a high-risk fetal center and determine if similar trends of postnatal presentations were noted for the same period. METHODS: Prenatal and postnatal LUTO databases from a tertiary fetal center and its associated pediatric center between 2009 and 2021 were reviewed, capturing maternal age, gestational age (GA) at diagnosis, and rates of termination of pregnancy (TOP). Time series analysis using autocorrelation was performed to investigate time trend changes for prenatally suspected and postnatally confirmed LUTO cases. RESULTS: A total of 161 fetuses with prenatally suspected LUTO were identified, including 78 terminations. No significant time trend was found when evaluating the correlation between time periods, prenatal suspicion, and postnatal confirmation of LUTO cases (Durbin-Watson [DW] = 1.99, = 0.3641 and DW = 2.86, = 0.9113, respectively). GA at referral was 20.0 weeks (interquartile range [IQR] 12, 35) and 22.0 weeks (IQR 13, 37) for TOP and continued pregnancies ( < 0.0001). GA at initial ultrasound was earlier in terminated fetuses compared to continued (20.0 [IQR 12, 35] weeks vs. 22.5 [IQR 13, 39] weeks, < 0.0001). While prenatal LUTO suspicion remained consistently higher than postnatal presentations, the rates of postnatal presentations and terminations remained stable during the study years ( = 0.7913 and 0.2338), as were GA at TOP and maternal age at diagnosis ( = 0.1710 and 0.1921). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that more severe cases of LUTO are referred earlier and are more likely to undergo TOP. No significant trend was detected between time and prenatally suspected or postnatally confirmed LUTO, highlighting the need for further studies to better delineate factors that can increase prenatal detection.
INTRODUCTION: Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure for achalasia; its indication has expanded from adults to children. We aimed to evaluate the postoperative efficacy and antire...INTRODUCTION: Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure for achalasia; its indication has expanded from adults to children. We aimed to evaluate the postoperative efficacy and antireflex status of POEM in young children with achalasia aged 12 years or younger. PATIENTS:AND METHODS: Pediatric patients with achalasia aged 18 years or younger who underwent POEM in our hospital between 2016 and 2021 were included and divided into two age groups: group A (≤ 12 years) and group B (13-18 years). The success rate (Eckardt score ≤ 3), endoscopic reflux findings, and antiacid use at 1 year postoperatively were compared between the groups. RESULTS: Ten patients (four boys and six girls; Chicago classification type I: five, type II: four, and unclassified: one) were included. Mean age and preoperative Eckardt scores in groups A ( = 4) and B ( = 6) were 9.2 ± 3.0 versus 15.6 ± 0.6 years ( = 0.001) and 5.5 ± 3.9 versus 7.2 ± 3.7 ( = 0.509), respectively, and mean operative time and myotomy length were 51.3 ± 16.6 versus 52.5 ± 13.2 minutes ( = 0.898) and 10.8 ± 4.6 versus 9.8 ± 3.2 cm ( = 0.720), respectively. The 1-year success rate was 100% in both groups. Mild esophagitis (Los Angeles classification B) was endoscopically found in one patient in each group (16.7 vs. 25.0%, = 0.714), and antiacid use was required in three patients (group A, two; group B, one; 50.0 vs. 16.7%, = 0.500). CONCLUSION: The success rate of POEM within 1 year in young children with achalasia aged 12 years or younger was equal to that in adolescent patients. However, young children tended to require antiacids 1 year postoperatively; therefore, long-term follow-up is necessary.
INTRODUCTION: Parkes Weber's syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by overgrowth and vascular malformations, primarily affecting the extremities. While PWS is known to be associated with arteriovenous...INTRODUCTION: Parkes Weber's syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by overgrowth and vascular malformations, primarily affecting the extremities. While PWS is known to be associated with arteriovenous and capillary malformations, the potential involvement of lymphatic malformations (LMs) has not been previously reported. The objective of this study is to investigate the presence of lymphatic anomalies in PWS patients and their role in the development of limb asymmetry. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with PWS in a Vascular Anomalies Center from 1994 to 2020. Clinical data were obtained from medical records including diagnostic imaging, lymphoscintigraphy, and genetic testing. The Institutional Review Board and Ethics Committee have approved this study. RESULTS: A total of 16 patients aged 18 interquartile range 14.7 years diagnosed with PWS were included (50% female). Six of the 16 patients with PWS had clinical and imaging data suggestive of LM (37.5%) and 3 of them had genetic variants in RASA1 (2/3) or KRAS (1/3). Limb asymmetry was greater in patients with isolated PWS (2.6 ± 0.8 cm) than in the PWS-lymphatic anomalies population (2 ± 0.7 cm), although not significant ( = 0.247). One in 6 patients with PWS-LM required amputation (16.6%) versus 1 in 10 in isolated PWS (10%). CONCLUSION: Lymphatic anomalies may be present in a significant number of patients with PWS and could have a role in limb asymmetry and outcomes. It is paramount to investigate their existence and distinguish them from true overgrowth.
INTRODUCTION: Nocturnal enuresis is a common yet quality-of-life-limiting pediatric condition. There is an increasing trend for parents to obtain information on the disease's nature and treatment options via the interne...INTRODUCTION: Nocturnal enuresis is a common yet quality-of-life-limiting pediatric condition. There is an increasing trend for parents to obtain information on the disease's nature and treatment options via the internet. However, the quality of health-related information on the internet varies greatly and is largely uncontrolled and unregulated. With this study, a readability, quality, and accuracy evaluation of the health information regarding nocturnal enuresis is carried out. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire was administered to parents and patients with nocturnal enuresis to determine their use of the internet to research their condition. The most common search terms were determined, and the first 30 websites returned by the most popular search engines were used to assess the quality of information about nocturnal enuresis. Each site was categorized by type and assessed for readability using the Gunning fog score, Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG) index, and Dale-Chall score; for quality using the DISCERN score; and for accuracy by comparison to the International Children's Continence Society guidelines by three experienced pediatric urologists and nephrologists. RESULTS: A total of 30 websites were assessed and classified into five categories: professional ( = 13), nonprofit ( = 8), commercial ( = 4), government ( = 3), and other ( = 2). The information was considered difficult for the public to comprehend, with mean Gunning fog, SMOG index, and Dale-Chall scores of 12.1 ± 4.3, 14.1 ± 4.3, and 8.1 ± 1.3, respectively. The mean summed DISCERN score was 41 ± 11.6 out of 75. Only seven (23%) websites were considered of good quality (DISCERN score > 50). The mean accuracy score of the websites was 3.2 ± 0.6 out of 5. Commercial websites were of the poorest quality and accuracy. Websites generally scored well in providing their aims and identifying treatment benefits and options, while they lacked references and information regarding treatment risks and mechanisms. CONCLUSION: Online information about nocturnal enuresis exists for parents; however, most websites are of suboptimal quality, readability, and accuracy. Pediatric surgeons should be aware of parents' health-information-seeking behavior and be proactive in guiding parents to identify high-quality resources.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcomes of jejunal turnover and bowel plication (JTBP) in high jejunal atresia of neonates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The clinical data of neonates that met the criteria were retrospectively an...OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcomes of jejunal turnover and bowel plication (JTBP) in high jejunal atresia of neonates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The clinical data of neonates that met the criteria were retrospectively analyzed from January 2012 to December 2021. The neonates were divided into the JTBP group and control group according to the surgical procedure. Demographics, postoperative morphology of the duodenum and proximal jejunum, intestinal recovery time, and complications were compared. RESULTS: A total of 75 patients were allocated to the JTBP ( = 30) and control ( = 45) groups, respectively. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of gestational age, birth weight, age at surgery, the pathological classification, and concomitant disease. Upper gastrointestinal contrast study showed that the diameter of the proximal bowel of the anastomotic stoma was normal and the duodenum and proximal jejunum were in streamline shape in the JTBP group. While the duodenum was dilated, the shape of Trojan angle was classified into sharp angle and blunt round angle in the control group. The duration of total parenteral nutrition, postoperative oral feeding time, and oral feeding time of 40 mL/3 h were significantly different between the JTBP group and control group (sharp and blunt round type): 9.0 ± 3.5, 7.0 ± 2.1, and 11.0 ± 6.0 versus 16.9 ± 4.2, 14.0 ± 5.0, and 19.0 ± 7.4 versus 11.9 ± 8.3, 8.2 ± 3.9, and 15.8 ± 3.6 days ( < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: JTBP for neonatal high jejunal atresia can significantly change the diameter of the proximal bowel and the course of duodenum jejunum flexure. Postoperative bowel movement was more in line with fluid dynamics, which was conducive to the recovery of the intestinal function and resulted in fewer complications.
OBJECTIVE: Nonoperative management (NOM) for simple acute appendicitis (SAA) is an acceptable mode of treatment in healthy children. Previous studies of NOM routinely excluded young children (< 5 years); however, the ef...OBJECTIVE: Nonoperative management (NOM) for simple acute appendicitis (SAA) is an acceptable mode of treatment in healthy children. Previous studies of NOM routinely excluded young children (< 5 years); however, the effect of age on NOM failure has not been directly assessed. Efficiency of NOM in young adults is questionable. Therefore, adolescents may also be at greater risk of NOM failure. Our aim was to investigate the effect of age on NOM failure. METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of children with SAA who received NOM between January 1, 2019, and June 30, 2021, at our institution. NOM failure was defined by subsequent appendectomy. Age was assessed as a continuous variable, and we also compared different age subgroups. RESULTS: In this study, 151 children were included (60% male), mean age 11.2 ± 3.2 years (range: 5-17). Overall, 66 children (44%) failed NOM, 90% of them within the first year (median 7 weeks). Ten percent of the cohort were younger than 6 years of age and 33% of them failed NOM ( = 0.39). Per 1 year increase in age, the odds of NOM failure increased by 12% ( = 0.027). Children over 14 years of age had 2.46 times higher odds to fail NOM ( = 0.03). These higher odds remained after adjusting for appendiceal diameter and appendicolith. Linear regression showed a decrease by a factor of 12 at the time of NOM failure with every 1-year increase in age (β = -12, = 0.09). CONCLUSION: The risk of NOM failure in children increases with age; therefore, age should be considered when deciding on the optimal management of SAA, especially in adolescents. Effectiveness of NOM in children younger than 6 years is noninferior to older children and therefore should not be excluded.
OBJECTIVE: Intestinal volvulus in the neonate is a surgical emergency caused by either midgut volvulus (MV) with intestinal malrotation or less commonly, by segmental volvulus (SV) without intestinal malrotation. The ai...OBJECTIVE: Intestinal volvulus in the neonate is a surgical emergency caused by either midgut volvulus (MV) with intestinal malrotation or less commonly, by segmental volvulus (SV) without intestinal malrotation. The aim of our study was to investigate if MV and SV can be differentiated by clinical course, intraoperative findings, and postoperative outcomes. METHODS: Using a defined search strategy, two investigators independently identified all studies comparing MV and SV in neonates. PRISMA guidelines were followed, and a meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3. RESULTS: Of 1,026 abstracts screened, 104 full-text articles were analyzed, and 3 comparative studies were selected (112 patients). There were no differences in gestational age (37 vs. 36 weeks), birth weight (2,989 vs. 2,712 g), and age at presentation (6.9 vs. 3.8 days). SV was more commonly associated with abnormal findings on fetal ultrasound (US; 65 vs. 11.6%; < 0.00001). Preoperatively, SV was more commonly associated with abdominal distension (32 vs. 77%; < 0.05), whereas MV with a whirlpool sign on ultrasound (57 vs. 3%; < 0.01). Bilious vomiting had similar incidence in both (88 ± 4% vs. 50 ± 5%). Intraoperatively, SV had a higher incidence of intestinal atresia (2 vs. 19%; < 0.05) and need for bowel resection (13 vs. 91%; < 0.00001). There were no differences in postoperative complications (13% MV vs. 14% SV), short bowel syndrome (15% MV vs. 0% SV; data available only from one study), and mortality (12% MV vs. 2% SV). CONCLUSION: Our study highlights the paucity of studies on SV in neonates. Nonetheless, our meta-analysis clearly indicates that SV is an entity on its own with distinct clinical features and intraoperative findings that are different from MV. SV should be considered as one of the differential diagnoses in all term and preterm babies with bilious vomiting after MV was ruled out-especially if abnormal fetal US and abdominal distension is present.
INTRODUCTION: Neonatal ovarian simple cyst management from the pediatric surgical aspect is unclear on cyst size, follow-up, and preferred surgical approach. Therefore, this topic was selected for the 2022 Consensus Ses...INTRODUCTION: Neonatal ovarian simple cyst management from the pediatric surgical aspect is unclear on cyst size, follow-up, and preferred surgical approach. Therefore, this topic was selected for the 2022 Consensus Session meeting of the European Paediatric Surgeons' Association (EUPSA). METHODS: The literature was reviewed on a predefined set of questions relating to the management of the neonatal ovarian simple cysts by a panel of 7 EUPSA members, on current evidence-based opinion and practice outlined. Each question (1) outcomes of fetal interventions in neonates after birth and consensus on size/timing of intervention, (2) consensus on the type of interventions, and (3) complications in neonatal ovarian cysts and follow-up recommendations in nonoperated/operated cysts, was presented with available evidence to congress session participants. The management approach was agreed by participants and comments were accounted to formulate the consensus statement. RESULTS: There is still limited data on potential benefits and complications of prenatal ultrasound-guided aspiration; however, neonates after such procedures should be followed for 6 months. Neonates with simple ovarian cysts larger than 4 cm should be offered surgical interventions within the 2 weeks of life with complete laparoscopic cyst aspiration and fenestration with bipolar instruments being the preferred approach. Ultrasound follow-up after surgical intervention after 3 months and with the conservative approach after every 3 to 4 months until 1 year. CONCLUSION: A peer-reviewed consensus statement for the management of neonatal ovarian simple cyst was formulated based on current evidence and peer practice. The EUPSA recognizes that the statement can be useful for pediatric surgeons in decision making for this pathology.
Treatment of pilonidal sinus disease with conventional excision techniques is associated with recurrence up to 20 to 30% (primary closure) or with prolonged healing that might last months (closure by secondary intention)...Treatment of pilonidal sinus disease with conventional excision techniques is associated with recurrence up to 20 to 30% (primary closure) or with prolonged healing that might last months (closure by secondary intention). Endoscopic pilonidal sinus treatment (EPSiT) is gaining increasing popularity. This systematic review aims to summarize and evaluate the reported outcomes of pediatric EPSiT (PEPSiT) to date. Systematic search was performed for all studies on PEPSiT in patients younger than 18 years, pertaining to demographics, technique, and outcomes. Fisher's test was used to assess the associations between success/recurrence rates and different approaches (fistuloscope vs. cystoscope, different wound care protocols). A total of 320 patients (9 studies, 2018-2022) with a weighted mean age of 15.7 years and follow-up duration of 13.5 months were included. PEPSiT was successful in 290 patients (90.9%) with weighted mean time to healing of 4.1 weeks. Recurrence was reported in 29 patients (9.1%) with weighted mean time to recurrence of 4.6 months. Outcomes were not significantly altered by the use of fistuloscope versus pediatric cystoscope ( = 1.0), or with perioperative laser epilation ( = 0.06), or postoperative regular shaving, depilatory creams, light pulse, or laser ( = 0.31). The weighted mean operative time was 38 minutes and hospital stay was 16 hours. Summary of available evidence confirms that PEPSiT is safe and effective. Added to its noninvasiveness, PEPSiT's pooled outcomes appear superior to those of numerous conventional techniques. Comparison with conventional techniques, particularly off-midline flap and semi-closure procedures, is, however, lacking. The superiority of PEPSiT needs to be confirmed in future comparative studies, including cost-benefit analysis.
INTRODUCTION: Umbilical vein catheterization (UVC) can cause portal venous thrombosis, leading to the development of extrahepatic portal venous obstruction (EHPVO) and portal hypertension (PHT). The feasibility of the M...INTRODUCTION: Umbilical vein catheterization (UVC) can cause portal venous thrombosis, leading to the development of extrahepatic portal venous obstruction (EHPVO) and portal hypertension (PHT). The feasibility of the Meso-Rex bypass (MRB) for the treatment of EHPVO in patients with a history of UVC has been questioned. We compared the feasibility of performing an MRB in patients with or without a history of previous UVC. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients with EHPVO and known UVC status explored for a possible MRB at our institution was performed (1997-2022). Patients were categorized in two groups: with (UVC(+)) or without (UVC(-)) a history of UVC for comparison. A -value less than 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: One hundred and eighty-seven patients were included ( = 57 in UVC(+); = 130 in UVC(-)). Patients in the UVC group were significantly younger at surgery and the incidence of prematurity was higher. Other risk factors for the development of EHPVO were similar between the groups, but only history of UVC could predict the ability to receive MRB (odds ratio [OR]: 7.4 [3.5-15.4]; < 0.001). The success rate of MRB was significantly higher in patients with no history of UVC (28/57 [49.1%] in UVC(+) vs. 114/130 [87.7%] in UVC(-); < 0.001). However, MRB patency at discharge (25/28 [89.3%] in UVC(+) vs. 106/114 [94.7%] in UVC(-); = 0.3) was equally high in both groups. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that a history of UVC is not a contraindication to MRB. Half of the patients were able to successfully receive an MRB. Patients with symptomatic PHT from EHPVO should not be excluded from consideration for MRB based on UVC history.
INTRODUCTION: Despite advances in neonatal intensive care, fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) remain to have a poor prognosis. Exclusive postnatal treatment is inadequate in patients with moderate CDH (o...INTRODUCTION: Despite advances in neonatal intensive care, fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) remain to have a poor prognosis. Exclusive postnatal treatment is inadequate in patients with moderate CDH (observed than expected lung-to-head ratio [O/E LHR] 26-45%) and can lead to respiratory failure at birth, requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in 75% of cases. An ex-utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedure may be beneficial in these cases, improving the fetal-neonatal transition. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We review all pregnancies with fetal isolated left CDH with moderate O/E LHR delivered by EXIT in our center from January 2007 to December 2022. Maternal and neonatal variables were analyzed. As primary outcomes, we included neonatal survival and mortality rates, surgical and infectious complications, uterine scar dehiscence, and blood loss during EXIT. As secondary outcomes, we studied recurrences of the diaphragmatic defect, long-term evolution, subsequent pregnancies, and mode of delivery. RESULTS: A total of 14 patients were delivered by the EXIT procedure, with a neonatal survival rate of 85.7%. All these children had optimal physical and neurocognitive development and no pulmonary morbidity. We found no major complications and 7.1% of minor maternal complications. There were no cases of surgical wound infection or endometritis. The median decrease in hemoglobin during the EXIT procedure was 1.9 mg/dL, and only one case required postoperative transfusion. Two out of the 14 women became pregnant again, and both pregnancies were uneventful. CONCLUSIONS: In our series, the EXIT procedure allows for adequate airway management associated with a high neonatal survival rate in patients with moderate O/E LHR CDH, with a low rate of neonatal and maternal complications.
Tang Y, Zhang J, Luo M
… +7 more, Li F, Huang H, Zhou Z, Fan X, Qin Z, He G, Zhuang Y
Eur J Pediatr Surg
· 2024 Oct · PMID 37467774
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PURPOSE: Hepaticojejunostomy anastomosis (HJA) is the most challenging aspect in single-port laparoscopic choledochal cystectomy and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (SPCH) in children, especially in small-diameter anastom...PURPOSE: Hepaticojejunostomy anastomosis (HJA) is the most challenging aspect in single-port laparoscopic choledochal cystectomy and Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (SPCH) in children, especially in small-diameter anastomoses (diameters less than 5 mm), which are more susceptible to anastomotic stricture. We developed the continuous submucosal technique for HJA (CS-HJA) to lessen postoperative complications. The purpose of this study is to introduce our preliminary experiences with CS-HJA. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed all available clinical data of children who underwent SPCH surgery between March 2020 and October 2022. We operated with CS-HJA on 10 children who were diagnosed with small-diameter hepaticojejunostomy (diameter less than 5 mm). Data collection mainly included demographic information, imaging data, perioperative details, and postoperative outcomes. Ten patients were included in this study. The average patient age was 55.2 months; the age range was 3 to 120 months, and the average weight was 11.6 kg; male-female ratio was 1:9. The choledocho had fusiform dilatation in five cases and cystic dilatation in five cases. There was no dilatation of the left and right hepatic ducts or intrahepatic bile ducts in all patients. All patients had no dilatation of the left and right hepatic ducts or intrahepatic bile ducts. All patients underwent a single-port laparoscopic bile-intestinal anastomosis using a submucosal jejunal anastomosis technique. Analysis of the duration of the bile-intestinal anastomosis, the length of the child's stay in the hospital after surgery, the intraoperative complications, and the postoperative complications was performed. RESULTS: All the 10 patients underwent successful SPCH by CS-HJA technique. The average length of time for hepaticojejunostomy ranged from 22 to 40 minutes, and the postoperative hospital stay was 5.2 to 9.2 days. There were no instances of bile leakage following the operation. At 17 to 30 months of follow-up, there was no abdominal pain or jaundice, and the reexamination of transaminases, bilirubin, and amylase were normal. Ultrasonography showed no bile duct stricture or dilated bile ducts, and the incision is elegant, and the families of the patients were satisfied. CONCLUSION: In SPCH surgery in children, the CS-HJA technique is safe and feasible for small-diameter hepaticojejunostomy.
INTRODUCTION: The long-term outcomes of children who underwent surgery for congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung (CCAML) are not well documented, particularly regarding orthopaedic and respiratory follo...INTRODUCTION: The long-term outcomes of children who underwent surgery for congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung (CCAML) are not well documented, particularly regarding orthopaedic and respiratory follow-up (FU). The aim of this study was to assess the long-term pulmonary and orthopaedic outcomes of surgically treated CCAML in newborns, infants, and toddlers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective examination of prospectively recorded data of consecutive patients with CCAML who underwent surgery at our tertiary referral institution from January 2000 to December 2015 (newborns, infants, and toddlers). Clinical, radiological, and surgical data, as well as FU data were revised. A multidisciplinary team followed the patients after discharge at scheduled time points. RESULTS: Seventy-seven patients were included. After surgery, patients were followed for a median of 8 years (range: 1-19 years) until they reached a median age of 8 years (range: 2-19 years). Thirty patients (39%) developed wheezing and 21 (27%) had lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) within 4 years of age. However, more than 50% of patients with respiratory symptoms underwent complete remission in the following 4 years. Thirty-one patients (40%) developed at least one minimal musculoskeletal deformity. Eighteen (23%) had scoliosis, 17 (22%) thoracic asymmetry, 10 (12%) pectus excavatum, and 5 (6%) winged scapula. CONCLUSIONS: Patients operated for CCAML had good overall outcomes despite pulmonary symptoms and musculoskeletal sequelae. Even though these issues are frequently paucisymptomatic, trying to use less-invasive procedures (such as minimally axillary open "muscle-sparing" thoracotomy or thoracoscopy) may reduce this burden. A structured multidisciplinary FU is required.
BACKGROUND: Pectus excavatum deformities are usually repaired with a minimally invasive approach in which a metal bar is used to correct the chest wall abnormality. We aimed to evaluate long-term outcomes and patient sa...BACKGROUND: Pectus excavatum deformities are usually repaired with a minimally invasive approach in which a metal bar is used to correct the chest wall abnormality. We aimed to evaluate long-term outcomes and patient satisfaction after surgical correction. METHODS: Patients who underwent pectus excavatum repair and subsequent bar removal at a single tertiary care center from January 2000 to December 2020 were identified. A retrospective chart review was performed, and a telephone survey was conducted to evaluate perceived inward chest movement, need for surgeon reevaluation, surgical reintervention, and overall satisfaction. Data are presented as medians with interquartile ranges (IQRs) and frequencies with percentages. RESULTS: A total of 583 patients were included. The survey response rate was 26.2% ( = 153). The respondents were predominantly male (80.4%, = 123) with a median age at surgical correction of 14.9 years (IQR 12.9, 16.1) and a median Haller index (HI) of 3.8 (IQR 3.4, 4.5). Median time to bar removal was 2.9 years (IQR 2.5, 3.0) with a median age at removal of 17.7 years (IQR 15.5, 19.0). Median time from surgery to survey follow-up was 9.6 years (IRQ 5.0, 11.4) with respondents having a median age at follow-up of 25 years (IQR 22.0, 28.4). The satisfaction rate was 96.7% ( = 148) with a reintervention rate of 2.0% ( = 3). The perceived inward chest movement was 30.7% ( = 47) with 12.8% ( = 6) of those requesting surgical reevaluation. CONCLUSION: There is a high level of satisfaction many years after correction of pectus excavatum and bar removal. With the advent of cryoablative therapy since 2017, patient satisfaction improved by experience of less postoperative pain. Reintervention rate is low despite some patients reporting a perceived chest wall inward movement.
OBJECTIVE: Surgical intervention in pediatric patients can cause variable degrees of psychological stress with potential consequences in the perioperative period and even in the long term, after hospital discharge in th...OBJECTIVE: Surgical intervention in pediatric patients can cause variable degrees of psychological stress with potential consequences in the perioperative period and even in the long term, after hospital discharge in the form of behavioral changes days and months later. The aim of our study was to determine which preoperative preparation strategy reduces postoperative maladaptive behavioral changes in children undergoing ambulatory pediatric surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective observational study included 638 pediatric American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I or II patients who underwent ambulatory pediatric surgery. They were grouped into four preoperative preparation groups: not premedicated (NADA), premedicated with midazolam (MDZ), parental presence during induction of anesthesia (PPIA), and parental presence during induction of anesthesia and premedicated with midazolam (PPIA + MDZ). All patients included in the study were contacted by telephone during 1 year posthospital discharge to assess the postoperative maladaptive behavioral changes using the Posthospitalization Behavior Questionnaire (PHBQ). We performed a multivariate analysis to evaluate the influence of type of preparation and behavioral changes. RESULTS: Patients in the PPIA and PPIA + MDZ preparation groups presented less postoperative maladaptive behavioral changes compared to patients in the NADA and MDZ groups (odds ratio [OR]: 1.8 [1.1-2.8] and OR 2.2 [1.03-4.49]) during the first week and first month. The intensity of emergence delirium measured by the Pediatric Anesthesia Emergence Delirium (PAED) scale increases the probability of postoperative maladaptive behavioral changes (OR: 1.05 [1.006-1.103]). CONCLUSION: The presence of parents during induction of anesthesia (PPIA and PPIA + MDZ) is a very effective strategy in reducing postoperative behavioral changes. These benefits are more significant in children under 5 years of age.
OBJECTIVE: Heterotopic pancreas (HP) is a condition in which there is well-differentiated pancreatic tissue that lacks any anatomic or vascular contact with the pancreatic gland. It normally arises from the stomach but...OBJECTIVE: Heterotopic pancreas (HP) is a condition in which there is well-differentiated pancreatic tissue that lacks any anatomic or vascular contact with the pancreatic gland. It normally arises from the stomach but can be found in other locations. Although it is usually asymptomatic, obstructive symptoms, bleeding, or malignant degeneration can occur. The incidence is very low, but it is significantly more common in patients with esophageal atresia (EA). The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence of HP in patients with and without EA and to compare the results in both groups. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a 2-year prospective study in pediatric patients who benefited from an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Patients were divided into two groups: group "A" comprised patients with EA and group "B" those without EA. The variables analyzed were the clinical presentation, presence of HP, location, associated malformations, genetic disorders, and management. RESULTS: A total of 192 consecutive patients were included in the study: 51 (26.6%) in group A and 141 (73.4%) in group B. Indications for endoscopy in group B were eosinophilic esophagitis in 37 (19.2%) patients, celiac disease in 23 (11.95%) patients, and other disorders in 81 (42.2%) patients. Gastric HP was found in seven patients, all of them in group A. All lesions were hosted in the prepyloric antrum. The prevalence of HP in groups A and B was 13.7 and 0%, respectively ( < 0.05). Female gender was predominant in patients with AE and HP, this result being statistically significant ( = 0.044). No other associated malformation or genetic syndrome studied showed association with HP. Only one patient debuted with upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and required excision, while six patients were asymptomatic. The mean follow-up was 54 months (range: 45-78 months). CONCLUSION: The incidence of gastric HP is more common in patients with EA, with the female gender being a risk factor for their association. Active search and follow-up is recommended as it may become symptomatic anytime and need resection.