Riñon torácico y hernia diafragmática: diagnóstico prenatal y manejo exitoso. Reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura / Thoracic kidney and diaphragmatic hernia: prenatal diagnosis and successful management. Case report and review of the literature

Objetivos: Reportar un caso de diagnóstico prenatal de riñón ectópico intratorácico (REI) con hernia diafragmática y manejo quirúrgico neonatal, y hacer una revisión de la literatura sobre diagnóstico prenatal de REI y el pronóstico perinatal. Materiales y métodos: Se reporta el caso de un feto de 28 semanas en el que se observó imagen ecográfica sugestiva de masa en hemitórax derecho que desplazaba corazón y pulmón; se confirmó que correspondía a un riñón intratorácico. Por laparoscopia, al recién nacido se le colocó una malla en continuidad con el diafragma dejando el riñón en el abdomen, con buena evolución. Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en PubMed, Embase y Cochrane. Se buscaron cohortes, reportes y series de caso de gestaciones con diagnóstico prenatal de riñón intratorácico fetal. Se extrajo información del diseño, la población, el diagnóstico por imágenes, el tratamiento y el pronóstico. Resultados: En la búsqueda se identificaron 8 estudios que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y que informan en total ocho casos. El diagnóstico ecográfico mostró REI asociado a hernia diafragmática en todos los sujetos. Se utilizó también la RM fetal en cinco casos. Seis neonatos sobrevivieron sin complicaciones, en uno hubo interrupción voluntaria del embarazo, y otro presentó sepsis y dificultad respiratoria, finalmente fue dado de alta en buenas condiciones. Conclusiones: El REI es una anomalía congénita susceptible de diagnóstico prenatal. La sobrevida a la cirugía correctora en el periodo neonatal es frecuente. La literatura disponible en torno al diagnóstico prenatal de REI es escasa y se limita a reportes de casos.

Objectives: To report a case of prenatal diagnosis of ectopic intrathoracic kidney with diaphragmatic hernia managed surgically after birth, and to conduct a review of the literature on prenatal diagnosis of ectopic intrathoracic kidney and perinatal prognosis. Material and methods: We report the case of a 28-week fetus in which, on ultrasound imaging, a mass was observed displacing the heart and lung in the right hemithorax, which was was confirmed by magnetic resonance (MR) to be an ectopic intrathoracic kidney. After birth, the neonate was approached by laparoscopy to place a mesh in continuity with the diaphragm, leaving the kidney in the abdomen, with good evolution. A search was conducted in the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases for cohorts, case reports and case series of prenatal diagnosis of intrathoracic kidney in the fetus. Information was retrieved regarding design, population, imaging diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. Results: The search identified 8 studies that met the inclusion criteria, reporting a total of 8 cases. Ultrasound diagnosis showed ectopic intrathoracic kidney associated with diaphragmatic hernia in all the subjects. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was also used in 5 cases. Conclusions: Ectopic intrathoracic kidney is a congenital abnormality amenable to prenatal diagnosis. Survival after corrective surgery performed in the neonatal period is common. There is a paucity of publications, limited to case reports, regarding the prenatal diagnosis of this condition.

Hernia diafragmática congénita de presentación tardía Reporte de caso con revisión de literatura / Late Presentation Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Case Report with Literature Review

Resumen Una hernia diafragmática congénita ocurre cuando existe un defecto estructural en el diafragma que permite la migración de los órganos abdominales a la cavidad torácica. Se considera de presentación tardía cuando se diagnostica después de los 30 días de vida extrauterina. Más del 60% de los pacientes con hernia diafragmática congénita cuentan con un diagnóstico erróneo al momento del nacimiento, encontrándose dentro de los diagnósticos más frecuentes al derrame pleural, neumonía, neumotórax, neumatocele y absceso pulmonar. Presentamos el caso de una paciente del sexo femenino de 3 años que acudió a urgencias por dolor abdominal, náuseas, vómito, intolerancia a la vía oral y dificultad respiratoria. La radiografía de tórax evidenció migración de la cámara gástrica hacia el tórax, dessplazamiento de la silueta cardiaca y las estructuras del mediastino hacia la derecha con la punta de la sonda nasogástrica ubicada en el hemitórax izquierdo. Se concluyó el diagnóstico de hernia diafragmática de presentación tardía. La paciente recibió tratamiento quirúrgico, el cual fue exitoso. Este trabajo destaca la importancia de sospechar el diagnóstico de hernia diafragmática congénita de presentación tardía cuando se abordan pacientes pediátricos con dificultad respiratoria sin otra causa aparente, dolor abdominal, náuseas y vómito.

Abstract A congenital diaphragmatic hernia occurs when the diaphragm has a structural defect that allows the migration of abdominal organs into the chest cavity. It is called late presentation when its diagnosis does after 30 days of life. More than 60% of patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia are misdiagnosed. The most common misdiagnoses are pleural effusion, pneumonia, pneumothorax, pneuma tocele, and lung abscess. We present a case of a 3-year-old female who attended the emergency room due to abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, intolerance to the oral route, and respiratory distress. The chest X-ray showed migration of the gastric chamber towards the thorax, displacement of the cardiac silhouette and the mediastinal structures to the right, and the tip of the nasogastric tube located in the left hemithorax. The doctors concluded a late presentation diaphragmatic hernia. The patient received surgical treatment, which was successful. This paper highlights the importance of suspecting the diagnosis of late-onset congenital diaphragmatic hernia when treating pediatric patients with respiratory distress without another apparent cause, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Evaluation of Diaphragmatic Thickness and Dysfunction by Ultrasonography in Mechanically Ventilated Children for Assessment of Extubation Success

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate diaphragm thickness (DT) and diaphragmatic thickening fraction (DTF) in mechanically ventilated children, and study the association of these measurements with extubation success. Methods: Consecutive children aged one month to 18 years, who required mechanical ventilation (MV) for more than 24 hours at our institution, were enrolled between April, 2019 to October, 2020. Ultrasonographic measurements of DT were documented, and DTF was calculated from baseline (within 24 hours of MV) until 14 days of MV, and up to three days post-extubation. Results: Of the 54 childrenenrolled, 40 underwent planned extubation trial, of which 9 (22.5%) had extubation failure. Pre-extubation and post-extubation DTF between children in extubation-success and extubation-failure groups were comparable (P=0.074). There was no significant difference in the diaphragm atrophy rate between the two groups (P=0.819). Binary logistic regression showed significantly decreased probability of successful extubation with total ventilation duration (P=0.012) and mean DTF% before extubation (P=0.033). Conclusion: Despite evidence of diaphragmatic atrophy in critically ill children receiving mechanical ventilation, there was no significant difference in DTF between extubation success and failure groups.

Hernia de Morgagni en la edad adulta

Introducción: La hernia de Morgagni es una anomalía congénita rara, responsable del 3% de las hernias diafragmáticas, que provoca opacidades radiológicas paracardíaca y retroesternal que suelen confundirse con otras afecciones. Objetivo: Notificar el caso de un paciente adulto diagnosticado con hernia de Morgagni en el Hospital General Docente "Dr. Antonio Luaces Iraola" de Ciego de Ávila. Caso clínico: Se presenta el caso de un varón de 28 años de edad con antecedentes de contusión torácica severa, que presentó dolor abdominal, dispepsias, dolor recurrente en región baja posterior del hemitórax derecho, falta de aire ligera y tos seca. Con la aplicación de un correcto método clínico se excluyeron otros posibles diagnósticos planteados previamente y se concluyó con estudios imagenológicos como una hernia de Morgagni. Se realizó tratamiento quirúrgico mediante laparotomía convencional. La evolución fue favorable, sin complicaciones posoperatorias y con egreso hospitalario precoz. Conclusiones: Se notificó el caso de un paciente diagnosticado con hernia de Morgagni que constituyó un tipo raro de hernia en adultos, cuyo diagnóstico se debe tener en cuenta en pacientes con manifestaciones clínicas digestivas o respiratorias, que presentan radiopacidad paracardíaca en la radiografía de tórax. Es necesario realizar tratamiento quirúrgico oportuno para prevenir posibles complicaciones.

Introduction: Morgagni's hernia is a rare congenital anomaly, responsible for 3% of diaphragmatic hernias, which causes paracardiac and retrosternal radiological opacities that are often confused with other conditions. Objective: To report the case of an adult patient diagnosed with Morgagni's hernia at "Dr. Antonio Luaces Iraola" General Teaching Hospital from Ciego de Avila. Clinical casereport: We report the case of a 28-year-old man with history of severe chest contusion, who showed abdominal pain, dyspepsia, recurrent pain in the lower posterior region of the right hemithorax, slight shortness of breath, and dry cough. With the use of the correct clinical method, other possible diagnoses were excluded from what was previously raised. Imaging studies concluded to be a Morgagni hernia. Surgical treatment was performed by conventional laparotomy. The evolution was favorable, without postoperative complications and with early hospital discharge. Conclusions: The case of a patient diagnosed with Morgagni's hernia was reported. It constituted a rare type of hernia in adults. Its diagnosis should be taken into account in patients with digestive or respiratory clinical manifestations, showing paracardiac radiopacity on chest X-ray. Timely surgical treatment is necessary to prevent possible complications.

Destete guiado por ecografía / Ultrasound-Guided Extubation

Introducción: La observación del diafragma con el ultrasonido ha sido posible desde hace más de cuatro décadas; recientemente se le ha dado importancia a la valoración ultrasonográfica del diafragma en el proceso de destete del paciente ventilado. Objetivo: Describir la utilización de la ecografía diafragmática en la evaluación del proceso de destete en dos pacientes. Presentación de caso: Se presentan dos casos, el primer caso paciente femenino de 79 años con diagnóstico de infarto cerebral, coma y bronconeumonía; que precisó ventilación mecánica invasiva y previa prueba de ventilación espontánea. Se le realizó ultrasonido de diafragma donde se comprobó alta probabilidad de falla en la extubación, por lo que se modificó el esquema de destete para corregir las causas. El segundo paciente masculino de 68 años con diagnóstico de neumonitis aspirativa por queroseno que necesitó soporte ventilatorio invasivo; cuando presentó mejoría del cuadro inicial y parámetros de oxigenación, se le evaluó la función diafragmática mediante ultrasonografía se comprobó alta probabilidad de éxito en la extubación, se logró sin complicaciones. Conclusiones: Se utilizó la ultrasonografía diafragmática, emerge como una herramienta de fácil acceso y bajo costo, en la evaluación del proceso de destete en los pacientes ventilados, permitió la exploración de la función del diafragma en directo y en pie de cama. La valoración de la excursión diafragmática y la fracción de engrosamiento diafragmático proporcionó una escala predictiva valiosa, para prever que pacientes tendrán una extubación exitosa o no(AU)

Introduction: The observation of the diaphragm with ultrasound has been possible for more than four decades; but only recently has importance been given to the ultra-sonographic assessment of the diaphragm in the weaning process of the ventilated patient. Objective: To describe the use of diaphragmatic ultrasound in the evaluation of the weaning process in two patients. Case presentation: Two cases are presented, the first case is a 79-year-old female patient with a diagnosis of cerebral infarction, coma and bronchopneumonia; that she required invasive mechanical ventilation and after a spontaneous ventilation test, an ultrasound of the diaphragm was performed, where a high probability of failure in extubation was verified, for which the weaning scheme was modified to correct the causes. The second 68-year-old male patient diagnosed with kerosene aspiration pneumonitis that required invasive ventilator support; that when he presented improvement of the initial symptoms and oxygenation parameters, his diaphragmatic function was evaluated by ultrasonography, verifying a high probability of success in extubation, achieved without complications. Conclusions: Diaphragmatic ultrasonography emerges as a tool of easy access and low cost, in the evaluation of the weaning process in ventilated patients, allowing the exploration of the function of the diaphragm in direct and at the foot of the bed. The evaluation of the diaphragmatic excursion and the fraction of diaphragmatic thickening provide us with a valuable predictive scale, to anticipate which patients will have a successful extubation or not(AU)

¿Neoplasia de células de Hürtle o de células oncocíticas? Denominación actual y su manejo. Reporte de caso / Hürtle cell or oncocytic cell neoplasm? Current denomination and its management. Case report

Introducción: Las células de Hürtle fueron descritas por Max Askanazy en 1898, aunque su denominación inapropiada ha permanecido en el léxico. Pueden observarse en una amplia variedad de lesiones tiroideas, desde afecciones no neoplásicas hasta francamente malignas. Caso clínico: Femenina de 62 años de edad, asmática e hipertensa controlada, alérgica al yodo y a la penicilina, quien inicia enfermedad actual 1 año previo al presentar aumento de volumen en región anterior del cuello. Ecografía tiroidea reportó glándula aumentada de tamaño, con nódulo tiroideo derecho, complejo de 4 cm; y nódulo tiroideo izquierdo, complejo de 2 cm, TI-RADS 4C. Tomografía computarizada reportó lesión ocupantne de espacio del lóbulo tiroideo derecho de 6 cm y nódulos tiroideos izquierdos de 3 y 2 cm. Pruebas tiroideas sin alteraciones. Se realizó tiroidectomía total. Diagnóstico histopatológico: adenoma de células de Hürtle. Conclusión: En la actualidad, el término correcto es neoplasia de células oncocíticas, bien sea para el adenoma o para el carcinoma. Este tipo de tumores se presenta con mayor frecuencia en mujeres de mediana edad y con un tamaño considerable al momento del diagnóstico. Es necesario establecer un protocolo de acción ante el diagnóstico presuntivo mediante punción por aspiración por aguja fina, debido a la dificultad para diferenciar entre patología benigna y maligna, con la finalidad de garantizar una conducta terapeútica adecuada(AU)

Introduction: Hürtle cells were described by Max Askanazy in 1898, although their inappropriate name has remained in the lexicon. They can be seen in a wide variety of thyroid lesions, from non-neoplastic to frankly malignant conditions. Clinical case: A 62-year-old female, asthmatic and controlled hypertensive, allergic to iodine and penicillin, who started the current disease 1 year before presenting volume increase in the anterior region of the neck. Thyroid ultrasound reported an enlarged gland, with a 4-cm complex right thyroid nodule; and left thyroid nodule, 2 cm complex, TI-RADS 4C. Computed tomography reported a 6 cm space-occupying lesion of the right thyroid lobe and 3 and 2 cm left thyroid nodules. Thyroid tests without alterations. Total thyroidectomy was performed. Histopatological diagnosis: Hürtle cell adenoma. Conclusion: Currently, the correct term is oncocytic cell neoplasm, either for adenoma or for carcinoma. This type of tumors occurs more frequently in middle-aged women and with a considerable size at the time of diagnosis. It is necessary to establish a protocol of action before the presumptive diagnosis by means of fine needle aspiration procedure, due to the difficulty to differentiate between benign and malignant pathology, with the purpose of guaranteeing an adequate therapeutic conduct(AU)

Hernia diafragmática traumática derecha en paciente geriátrico. Reporte de un caso infrecuente / Traumatic right diaphragmatic hernia in an elderly patient. A rare case report

Introducción: La hernia diafragmática surge como resultado del movimiento de los órganos abdominales hacia el tórax a través de un defecto del diafragma resultante de varios tipos de lesiones, que a menudo representan un desafío diagnóstico y terapéutico. La hernia diafragmática traumática es una enfermedad infrecuente. El trauma diafragmático rara vez es aislado, la mayoría de las veces se acompaña de otras lesiones toracoabdominales, cerebrales o musculoesqueléticas, siendo estas comorbilidades más graves responsables del mal pronóstico y aumento de la mortalidad. Caso clínico: Anciana de 90 años de edad, hipertensa, quien inicia cuadro clínico 48 horas previas a su ingreso, cuando posterior a caída del plano de bipedestación presenta disminución del estado de consciencia, náuseas, vómitos y disnea en reposo. Rx de tórax evidencia asas intestinales en hemitórax derecho. Se realizó laparotomía exploradora. Conclusión: Las hernias diafragmáticas traumáticas son infrecuentes, con incidencia <3%, sintomatología inespecífica y relacionadas generalmente con lesiones asociadas al trauma. Siempre se debe sospechar de una HD ante un paciente con antecedente de trauma cerrado de alto impacto o penetrante, en función de la cinética y mecanismo de lesión. El diagnóstico supone un reto para el cirujano, debiendo apoyarse en una firme sospecha y estudios radiológicos. Su tratamiento es quirúrgico, debiendo ser individualizado, con abordajes torácicos o abdominales en función del caso. La técnica a emplear dependerá de las características del defecto, de la fase del diagnóstico y la experiencia del equipo quirúrgico(AU)

Introduction: Diaphragmatic hernia arises as a result of the movement of the abdominal organs towards the thorax through a defect in the diaphragm resulting from various types of injuries, which often represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia is a rare disease. Diaphragmatic trauma is rarely isolated, most of the time it is accompanied by other thoracoabdominal, brain or musculoskeletal injuries, these more serious comorbidities being responsible for the poor prognosis and increased mortality. Clinical case: A 90-year-old woman with hypertension , who began a clinical picture 48 hours prior to admission, when after falling from the standing plane he presented a decreased state of consciousness, nausea, vomiting, and dyspnea at rest. Chest x-ray shows intestinal loops in the right hemithorax. Exploratory laparotomy was performed. Conclusion: Traumatic diaphragmatic hernias are rare, with an incidence of <3%, non-specific symptoms, and generally related to injuries associated with trauma. HD should always be suspected in a patient with a history of high-impact or penetrating blunt trauma, depending on the kinetics and mechanism of injury. Diagnosis is a challenge for the surgeon, and must be based on a firm suspicion and radiological studies. Its treatment is surgical, and must be individualized, with thoracic or abdominal approaches depending on the case. The technique to be used will depend on the characteristics of the defect, the diagnostic phase and the experience of the surgical team(AU)

Post-natal prognostic factors in CDH: experience of 11 years in a referral center in Brazil

Abstract Objective To describe post-natal risk factors associated with death in Newborns (NB) with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) in a Brazilian reference center. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, post-natal clinical factors of all NB diagnosed with CDH were reviewed in an 11-year period (2007‒2018). The primary outcome was death. Secondary outcomes included clinical features, prognostic indexes, type of mechanical ventilation, complications during hospitalization and surgical repair. Results After applying the exclusion criteria, the authors analyzed 137 charts. Overall mortality was 59% (81/137), and the highest rates were observed for low-birth-weight NB (87%), syndromic phenotype (92%), and those with major malformations (100%). Prognostic indexes such as Apgar, SNAPPE-II and 24hOI (best oxygenation index in 24 hours) were all associated with poor evolution. In a multivariate analysis, only birth weight and 24hOI were statistically significant risk factors for mortality, with a reduction in mortality risk of 17.1% (OR = 0.829, 95% IC 0.72‒0.955, p = 0.009) for each additional 100g at birth and an increase by 26.5% (OR = 1.265, 95% IC 1.113‒1.436, p = 0.0003) for each unitary increase at the 24hOI. Conclusion Prognostic indexes are an important tool for predicting outcomes and improving resource allocation. Post-natal risk factors may be more suitable for settings where antenatal diagnosis is not universal. Classical risk factors, such as prematurity, low birth weight, higher need for supportive care, and poorer prognostic indexes were associated with mortality in our CDH population.

Management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia in preterm and low birth weight infants / 中华围产医学杂志

Objective:To investigate the treatment of preterm and low birth weight infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and to share the experience.Methods:This retrospective study enrolled 117 newborns with CDH who underwent major surgery at Children's Hospital, Capital Institute of Pediatrics from May 1, 2011, to March 31, 2022. Based on gestational age and birth weight, the infants were divided into the preterm and/or low birth weight group (gestational age < 37 weeks and/or birth weight less than 2 500 g, n=41) and the control group (gestational age ≥ 37 weeks and birth weight ≥ 2 500 g, n=76). Furthermore, the preterm and/or low birth weight infants were divided into the thoracoscopic surgery subgroup ( n=31) and the open surgery subgroup ( n=10) according to the surgical approach. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using two independent sample t-tests, rank sum tests, Chi-square test, or Fisher's exact probability test. Results:Preoperative data showed that the Apgar scores at 1 min [7.0 (6.0-8.0) vs 9.0 (8.0-9.8), Z=－4.03] and 5 min [9.0 (8.0-10.0) vs 9.0 (9.0-10.0), Z=－2.13] of the preterm and/or low birth weight infants were both lower than those in the control group (both P<0.05), while the proportion of infants with moderate to severe pulmonary hypertension was higher [68.3% (28/41) vs 38.2% (29/76), χ 2=9.68, P<0.05]. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of the proportion of thoracoscopic surgery, operation time, right diaphragmatic hernia, presence of hernia sac, grading of the defect, presence of liver herniation, and application of mesh (all P>0.05). Regarding the postoperative outcomes, the death rate in the preterm and/or low birth weiht group was higher compared to the control group [36.6% (15/41) vs 13.2% (10/76), χ 2=8.70, P<0.05]. Additionally, the time required to resume full enteral nutrition after surgery was longer in the preterm and/or low birth weight group than that in the control group [25 d (18-29 d) vs 16 d (10-25 d), Z=2.31, P<0.05]. The thoracoscopic subgroup had a lower mortality compared to the open surgery subgroup [25.8% (8/31) vs 7/10, P<0.05]. The thoracoscopic surgery subgroup had a higher Apgar score at 1 min after birth [(7.4±1.6) vs (6.0±2.2), t=2.20, P<0.05], later age at operation (hours after birth) [31.0 h (23.0-48.0 h) vs 17.0 h (4.7-24.5 h), Z=2.57, P<0.05], a lower proportion of infants operated within 24 hours after birth [32.3% (10/31) vs 8/10, P<0.05], and longer duration of operation [170.0 min (122.0-200.0 min) vs 110.0 min (87.3-120.0 min), Z=3.65, P<0.05]. Conclusions:In this study, a higher mortality in the preterm and/or low birth weight group compared to the control group was observed, which may be attributed to the higher proportion of neonates with moderate-severe pulmonary hypertension. The thoracoscopic diaphragmatic repair can be attempted for preterm and low birth weight infants who have relatively stable respiratory and circulatory functions.

Preliminary study on the value of fetal MRI lung volume and mediastinal shift angle for predicting prognosis of left congenital diaphragmatic hernia / 中华放射学杂志

Objective:To explore the value of fetal lung volume and mediastinal shift angle (MSA) based on fetal MRI in predicting the prognosis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).Methods:Fetuses with left CDH that did fetal MRI in Xinhua Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from September 2016 to January 2022 were retrospectively collected. There were 65 patients, and their gestational age was 29 (26, 35) weeks when they were diagnosed with left CDH by MRI. Observed fetal lung volume and MSA were measured based on fetal MRI, and observed/expected lung volume (o/eFLV) based on gestational age was calculated. The clinical data were collected from birth to discharge, and patients were divided into survival group and death group in case of prognosis at discharge, with 54 cases in the survival group and 11 cases in the death group. The student′s t test was used to compare the difference of o/eFLV and MSA between the survival group and the death group, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the value of o/eFLV and MSA in predicting the prognosis of left CDH. Results:The o/eFLV of the survival group was 51.5%±18.3%, higher than that of the death group (27.8%±4.4%), and the difference was significant ( t=8.29, P<0.001). The MSA of the survival group was 33.1°±1.2°, lower than that of the death group (41.8°±2.7°), and the difference was significant ( t=-11.15, P<0.001). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of o/eFLV to predict the fetal survival or death was 0.939 (95%CI 0.851-0.983), the cutoff value was 33.8%, the sensitivity was 100%, the specificity was 88.9%. The AUC of MSA was 0.998 (95%CI 0.941-1.000), the cutoff value was 37.2°, the sensitivity was 100%, the specificity was 98.2%. Conclusions:The o/eFLV and MSA that were measured based on fetal MRI can effectively predict the fetus′s prognosis with left CDH.

Asistencia del recién nacido con hernia diafragmática congénita / Care of newborns with congenital diaphragmatic hernia / Cuidados ao recém-nascido com hérnia diafragmática congênita

La hernia diafragmática congénita es un defecto en el diafragma que lleva a la herniación del contenido abdominal a la cavidad torácica durante el período intrauterino. La morbimortalidad está determinada por la asociación con otras malformaciones, el grado de hipoplasia pulmonar y la presencia de hipertensión pulmonar secundaria. Presenta una incidencia estimada de 1 cada 2.500-3.000 recién nacidos vivos, constituyendo en un 60% una malformación aislada. Es una patología evolutiva que puede ser diagnosticada a partir de la semana 20-24, la ubicación más habitual es la posterolateral izquierda. Se trata de una patología que requiere ingreso a cuidados intensivos al nacimiento y luego de lograda la estabilización del paciente es de sanción quirúrgica. Los objetivos de este trabajo son conocer las características generales de la patología para sistematizar el manejo logrando así un óptimo asesoramiento de los padres a nivel prenatal y seguimiento postnatal del recién nacido.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a defect in the diaphragm that leads to herniation of theabdominal contents of the thoracic cavity during the intrauterine period. Morbidity and mortality are determined by the association with other malformations, the degree ofpulmonary hypoplasia and the presence of secondary pulmonary hypertension.It has an estimated incidence of 1 every 2,500-3,000 live newborns, and in 60% of the cases it is an isolated malformation. It is an evolutionary pathology that can be diagnosed from week 20-24; it is most commonly located in the left posterolateral. It is a pathology that requires intensive care at birth and after delivery and once the patient has been stabilized, surgical action is required. The objectives of this work are to understand the general characteristics of the pathology in order to refine its manipulation and achieve optimal counseling for parents at the newborn's prenatal and postnatal stages.

A hérnia diafragmática congênita é um defeito no diafragma que leva à herniação doconteúdo abdominal para a cavidade torácica durante o período intrauterino. A morbimortalidade é determinada pela associação com outras malformações, pelo grau de hipoplasia pulmonar e pela presença de hipertensão pulmonar secundária. Apresenta uma incidência estimada de 1 a cada 2.500-3.000 nascidos vivos, constituindo-se em 60% uma malformação isolada. É uma patologia evolutiva que pode ser diagnosticada a partir da semana 20-24 e a localização mais comum é o póstero-lateral esquerdo. É uma patologia que requer internação em terapia intensiva ao nascimento e após o parto. Uma vez que o paciente for estabilizado, é necessária ação cirúrgica. Os objetivos deste paper são conhecer as características gerais da patologia para melhorar o seu manejo, obtendo assim um aconselhamento ideal para os pais no nível pré-natal e no acompanhamento do crescimento pós-natal do recém-nascido.

The myocardial capillary network is altered in congenital diaphragmatic hernia in the fetal rabbit model

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is associated with thoracic compression of the lungs and heart caused by the herniated abdominal content, leading to cardiac modifications including pressure and vascular changes. Our aim was to investigate the experimental immunoexpression of the capillary proliferation, activation, and density of Ki-67, VEGFR2, and lectin in the myocardium after surgical creation of a diaphragmatic defect. Pregnant New Zealand rabbits were operated on the 25th gestational day in order to create left-sided CDH (LCDH, n=9), right-sided CDH (RCDH, n=9), and Control (n=9), for a total of 27 fetuses in 19 pregnant rabbits. Five days after the procedure, animals were sacrificed, and histology and immunohistochemistry studies of the harvested hearts were performed. Total body weight and heart weight were not significantly different among groups (P=0.702 and 0.165, respectively). VEGFR2 expression was increased in both ventricles in the RCDH group (P<0.0001), and Ki-67 immunoexpression was increased in the left ventricle in the LCDH group compared to Control and RCDH groups (P<0.0001). In contrast, capillary density was reduced in the left ventricle in the LCDH compared to the Control and RCDH groups (P=0.002). Left and right ventricles responded differently to CDH in this model depending on the laterality of the diaphragmatic defect. This surgical model of diaphragmatic hernia was associated with different expression patterns of capillary proliferation, activation, and density in the myocardium of the ventricles of newborn rabbits.

Hernia diafragmática derecha postraumática de presentación tardía. Un caso infrecuente / Post-traumatic right diaphragmatic hernia of late presentation. A rare case

RESUMEN La hernia diafragmática traumática se define como el paso del contenido abdominal a la cavidad torácica a través de un defecto en el diafragma producido por un trauma. Su diagnóstico es difícil, a menudo puede pasar inadvertido, debido a la gravedad de las lesiones que le acompañan. Las claves para el diagnóstico son un alto grado de sospecha y el conocimiento de los distintos signos en la tomografía computarizada. Una vez diagnosticada la ruptura diafragmática, se repara quirúrgicamente para evitar complicaciones. Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino, de 88 años de edad con antecedentes de haber sufrido trauma toracoabdominal cerrado hacía 35 años, que acudió con un cuadro clínico de oclusión intestinal. Se publica este caso porque, además de ser una entidad poco frecuente, resulta importante el conocimiento de esta enfermedad, para valorarla dentro de las posibilidades diagnósticas en aquellos pacientes que aquejen síntomas relacionados con sus complicaciones.

ABSTRACT Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia is defined as the passage of abdominal contents into the thoracic cavity through a defect in the diaphragm caused by trauma. The diagnosis of traumatic diaphragmatic hernia is difficult, it can often go unnoticed, due to the seriousness of the accompanying injuries. The keys to diagnosis are a high degree of suspicion and knowledge of the various signs on computed tomography. Once the diaphragmatic rupture is diagnosed, it is surgically repaired in order to avoid complications. The case of an 88-year-old male patient with a history of having suffered closed thoracoabdominal trauma 35 years earlier, who presented with a clinical picture of intestinal obstruction is presented. This case is published because, in addition to being a rare entity, knowledge of this disease is important, in order to assess it within the diagnostic possibilities, in those patients who suffer from symptoms related to its complications

Evaluación de la parálisis diafragmática con ultrasonido y espirometría: comparación del bloqueo supraclavicular vs bloqueo interescalénico en cirugía de hombro / Evaluation of diaphragmatic paralysis with ultrasound and spirometry: comparison of supraclavicular vs interscalene block in shoulder surgery

Resumen: Introducción: la cirugía artroscópica de hombro ha ganado popularidad recientemente; sin embargo, el dolor postquirúrgico se reporta de moderado a severo. La anestesia regional es útil para el control del dolor postquirúrgico. El bloqueo interescalénico y supraclavicular produce parálisis diafragmática en diferente proporción. Se busca encontrar cuál es el porcentaje y duración de la parálisis hemidiafragmática mediante mediciones ultrasonográficas, correlacionadas con espirometría comparando el abordaje supraclavicular con interescalénico. Material y métodos: ensayo clínico, controlado y aleatorizado. Se incluyeron 52 pacientes entre 18 y 90 años, programados para cirugía artroscópica de hombro, divididos en dos grupos (bloqueo interescalénico y supraclavicular). Se midió la excursión diafragmática y se realizó una espirometría previo al ingreso al quirófano y a las 24 horas de instalación del bloqueo, el estudio concluyó a las 24 horas del evento anestésico. Resultados: la capacidad vital se redujo en 0.7% en el grupo del bloqueo supraclavicular y 7.7% en el grupo interescalénico, el VEF1 se redujo en 0.2% en el supraclavicular y 9.5% en el interescalénico con una diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p = 0.001). La parálisis diafragmática en ventilación espontánea se presentó en ambos abordajes a los 30 minutos, sin diferencia significativa. A las seis y ocho horas continuó la parálisis en el grupo interescalénico, mientras que en el abordaje supraclavicular se mantuvo en comparación con la basal. Conclusiones: el bloqueo supraclavicular resulta tan efectivo como el bloqueo interescalénico en la cirugía artroscópica de hombro, con menor bloqueo diafragmático (1.5 veces más parálisis diafragmática en el interescalénico).

Abstract: Introduction: arthroscopic shoulder surgery has recently gained popularity, however, postoperative pain is reported as moderate to severe. Regional anesthesia is useful for the control of postoperative pain. Interscalene and supraclavicular blocks produce diaphragmatic paralysis in different proportions. The aim of this study is to find the percentage and duration of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis, by means of ultrasonographic measurements, correlated with spirometry, comparing the supraclavicular approach with interscalene. Material and methods: clinical, controlled and randomized trial. Fifty-two patients, between 18 and 90 years of age, scheduled for arthroscopic shoulder surgery were included, divided into 2 groups (interscalene or supraclavicular block). Diaphragmatic excursion was measured and spirometry was performed prior to admission to the operating room and 24 hours after installation of the block, the study concluded 24 hours after the anesthetic event. Results: vital capacity was reduced by 0.7% in the supraclavicular block and 7.7% for the interscalene, FEV1 was reduced by 0.2% for the supraclavicular and 9.5% in the interscalene with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.001). Diaphragmatic paralysis in spontaneous ventilation appeared in both approaches at 30 minutes, without significant difference. At 6 and 8 hours, paralysis continued in the interscalene group, while in the supraclavicular approach it remained preserved compared to the baseline. Conclusions: supraclavicular block is as effective as interscalene block in arthroscopic shoulder surgery, with less diaphragmatic block (1.5 times more diaphragmatic paralysis in interscalene).

Índice de respiración rápida superficial diafragmática como predictor weaning de la ventilación mecánica / Rate of rapid superficial diaphragmatic breathing as a weaning predictor of mechanical ventilation

El destete de la ventilación mecánica (VM) es un paso clave para los pacientes sometidos a VM invasiva en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI). Entre las diversas herramientas destinadas a ayudar a predecir el fracaso sucesor del destete, encontramos el índice rápido de respiración superficial (RSBI por sus siglas en inglés), es decir, la relación entre la frecuencia respiratoria y el volumen corriente (Fr/Vt) medido durante una prueba de respiración espontánea (SBT por sus siglas en inglés). Objetivo: Describir el índice de respiración superficial diagramática como predictor Weaning de la ventilación mecánica. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de revisión, de tipo monográfico. Apoyado en artículos científicos, publicados en diferentes revistas indexzada en índices reconocidos. Resultado: Durante un SBT, el valor de RSBI parece ser paralelo a la evolución de la fatiga de los músculos respiratorios. Por lo tanto, se considera que el RSBI refleja la carga inspiratoria, siendo la disminución del volumen tidal junto con el aumento de frecuencia respiratoria indicativo de posible debilidad o fatiga de los músculos inspiratorios, u otros efectos fisiológicos. Conclusión: Entre los pacientes ventilados en la UCI, una alteración multifactorial del diafragma es común y puede resultar en falla del destete y prolongación de la VM invasiva; por lo tanto, evaluar la función del diafragma es un medio útil para evaluar la capacidad del paciente para tolerar la respiración espontánea(AU)

Weaning from mechanical ventilation (MV) is a key step for patients undergoing invasive MV in the intensive care unit (ICU). Among the various tools intended to help predict successor failure weaning, we found the rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI for its acronym in English), that is, the relationship between the respiratory rate and the volume current (Fr/Vt) measured during a spontaneous breathing test (SBT by its acronym in English). Objective: To describe the rate of shallow breathing Diagrammatic as a Weaning predictor of mechanical ventilation. Materials and methods: Review study, monographic type. supported by articles scientific, published in different magazines indexed in recognized indices. Result: During an SBT, the RSBI value appears to be parallel to the evolution of respiratory muscle fatigue. Therefore, it is considered that the RSBI reflects the inspiratory load, being the decrease in tidal volume together with the increased respiratory rate indicative of possible weakness or fatigue of the inspiratory muscles, or other physiological effects. Conclusion: Among the patients ventilated in the ICU, a multifactorial alteration of the diaphragm is common and can result in weaning failure and prolongation of invasive MV; by Therefore, assessing diaphragm function is a useful means of assessing the patient's ability to tolerate spontaneous breathing(AU)

Imaging Assessment of Prognostic Parameters in Cases of Isolated Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Integrative Review / Avaliação de fatores prognósticos por métodos de imagem em casos de hérnia diafragmática congênita isolada: Revisão integrativa

Abstract Objective Antenatal recognition of severe cases of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) by ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may aid decisions regarding the indication of fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion. Methods An integrative review was performed. Searches in MEDLINE and EMBASE used terms related to CDH, diagnosis, MRI, and US. The inclusion criteria were reviews and guidelines approaching US and MRI markers of severity of CDH published in English in the past 10 years. Results The search retrieved 712 studies, out of which 17 publications were included. The US parameters were stomach and liver positions, lung-to-head ratio (LHR), observed/expected LHR (o/e LHR), and quantitative lung index. The MRI parameters were total fetal lung volume (TFLV), observed/expected TFLV, relative fetal or percent predicted lung volumes, liver intrathoracic ratio, and modified McGoon index. None of the parameters was reported to be superior to the others. Conclusion The most mentioned parameters were o/e LHR, LHR, liver position, o/e TFLV, and TFLV.

Resumo Objetivo A identificação pré-natal de casos graves de hérnia diafragmática congênita (HDC) por ultrassonografia (US) e ressonância magnética (RM) pode ajudar a decidir sobre a indicação de oclusão traqueal endoscópica fetal. Métodos Uma revisão integrativa foi realizada pesquisando nas bases MEDLINE e EMBASE comtermos relativos a HDC, diagnóstico, RM, e US. Os critérios de inclusão foram revisões e diretrizes abordando marcadores ultrassonográficos e de ressonância para a gravidade de HDC publicados em inglês nos últimos 10 anos. Resultados Foram obtidos 712 estudos, dos quais 17 foram incluídos. Os parâmetros de US foram posições do estômago e do fígado, relação pulmão-cabeça (LHR, na sigla em inglês), LHR observada/esperada (o/e LHR), e índice pulmonar quantitativo (QLI, na sigla em inglês). Os parâmetros de RM foram volume pulmonar fetal total (TFLV, na sigla em inglês), o/e TFLV, volume pulmonar fetal relativo e porcentagem predita, razão do fígado intratorácico (LiTR, na sigla em inglês) e índice de McGoon modificado. Nenhum dos parâmetros foi mencionado como superior aos demais. Conclusão Os parâmetros mais citados foram o/e LHR, LHR, posição do fígado, o/e TFLV, e TFLV.

Terapia de electroestimulación para el tratamiento de la atrofia diafragmática inducida por ventilación mecánica / Electrostimulation therapy for the treatment of diaphragmatic atrophy induced by mechanical ventilation / Terapia de eletroestimulação para o tratamento da atrofia diafragmática induzida por ventilação mecânica

Resumen: Introducción: La atrofia y disfunción del músculo diafragmático es frecuente en pacientes sometidos a ventilación mecánica. La terapia de electroestimulación diafragmática transcutánea (TEDT) ha demostrado mejorar la fuerza en pacientes con debilidad muscular; sin embargo, no ha sido evaluada como tratamiento para la atrofia en la disfunción diafragmática inducida por ventilación mecánica (DDIVM). Objetivo: Determinar si la TEDT puede mejorar el grosor diafragmático de los pacientes que se encuentran bajo ventilación mecánica. Material y métodos: Se realizó un ensayo clínico aleatorizado en dos grupos independientes: un grupo intervención con 15 pacientes y un grupo control con 17 pacientes. El grupo de intervención recibió TEDT con sesiones de 20 minutos cada seis horas en las 72 horas subsecuentes a su inclusión al estudio. El grosor diafragmático basal fue medido mediante ecografía en ambos grupos, después de la TEDT para el grupo intervención y 72 horas después en el grupo control. Resultados: De los 32 pacientes evaluados se documentó una media de grosor diafragmático inicial para el grupo control de 2.04 ± 0.43 mm y de 1.9 ± 0.52 mm para el grupo intervención con un valor de p = 0.652. Posterior a la intervención, se registró una media de grosor diafragmático final de 1.7 ± 0.43 mm para el grupo control y 2.3 ± 0.55 mm para el grupo intervención con un valor de p = 0.002 al comparar ambos grupos. Conclusión: Se encontró diferencia estadísticamente significativa en ambos grupos al aplicar la TEDT, evidenciando un aumento del grosor diafragmático basal en el grupo intervención y disminución del mismo en el grupo control.

Abstract: Introduction: Muscle involvement in critically ill patients is present in the majority of those admitted to the intensive care unit, including alteration of the diaphragmatic muscle, especially during mechanical ventilation (MV). Transcutaneous diaphragmatic electrostimulation therapy (TEDT) has been shown to improve respiratory strength in patients with muscle weakness. However, it has not been evaluated as a treatment for atrophy in Ventilation-Induced Diaphragmatic Dysfunction (DDIVM). Objective: To determine if TEDT can improve diaphragmatic thickness in patients undergoing mechanical ventilation. Material and methods: A randomized clinical trial was carried out in two independent groups: an intervention group with 15 patients and a control group with 17 patients. The intervention group received TEDT with sessions of 20 minutes every 6 hours in the 72 hours after their inclusion in the study. Baseline diaphragm thickness was measured by ultrasound in both groups, after TEDT for the intervention group and 72 hours later in the control group. Results: Of the 32 patients evaluated, a mean initial diaphragmatic thickness was documented for the control group of 2.04 ± 0.43 mm and of 1.9 ± 0.52 mm for the intervention group with a p value of 0.652. After the intervention, a mean final diaphragmatic thickness of 1.7 ± 0.43 mm was recorded for the control group and 2.3 ± 0.55 mm for the intervention group with a p value of 0.002 when comparing both groups. Conclusion: A statistically significant difference was found in both groups when applying TEDT, showing an increase in baseline diaphragmatic thickness in the intervention group and a decrease in it in the control group.

Resumo: Introdução: Atrofia e disfunção do músculo diafragmático é comum em pacientes submetidos à ventilação mecânica. A terapia de estimulação elétrica diafragmática transcutânea (TEDT) demonstrou melhorar a força em pacientes com debilidade muscular, mas não foi avaliada como tratamento para atrofia na disfunção diafragmática induzida pela ventilação (DDIVM). Objetivo: Determinar se a TEDT pode melhorar a espessura diafragmática de pacientes com ventilação mecânica. Material e métodos: Realizou-se um ensaio clínico randomizado em 2 grupos independentes: um grupo intervenção com 15 pacientes e um grupo controle com 17 pacientes. O grupo intervenção recebeu TEDT com sessões de 20 minutos a cada 6 horas por 72 horas após a inclusão no estudo. A espessura diafragmática basal foi medida por ultra-som em ambos os grupos, após TEDT para o grupo de intervenção e 72 horas depois no grupo controle. Resultados: Dos 32 pacientes avaliados, (17 grupo controle, 15 grupo intervenção). Documentou-se uma média da espessura diafragmática basal para o grupo controle de 2.04 ± 0.43 mm e 1.9 ± 0.52 mm para o grupo intervenção com um valor de p = 0.652. Após a intervenção, foi registrada uma espessura média final do diafragma de 1.7 ± 0.43 mm para o grupo controle e 2.3 ± 0.55 mm para o grupo intervenção, com valor de p = 0.002 na comparação entre os dois grupos. Conclusão: Encontrou-se diferença estatisticamente significativa em ambos os grupos na aplicação do TEDT, mostrando aumento da espessura basal do diafragma no grupo intervenção e diminuição da mesma no grupo controle.

Perinatal Outcomes after Fetal Endoscopic Tracheal Occlusion for Isolated Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Rapid Review / Resultados perinatais após oclusão traqueal endoscópica fetal por hérnia diafragmática congênita isolada: Revisão rápida

Abstract Objective To compare the perinatal outcomes of fetuses with isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia after fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) and antenatal expectant management. Data sources In this rapid review, searches were conducted in the MEDLINE, PMC, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases between August 10th and September 4th, 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-RCTs or cluster-RCTs published in English in the past ten years were included. Study selection We retrieved 203 publications; 180 studies were screened by abstract. Full-text selection was performed for eight studies, and 1 single center RCTmet the inclusion criteria (41 randomized women; 20 in the FETO group, and 21 in the control group). Data collection Data collection was performed independently, by both authors, in two steps (title and abstract and full-text reading). Data synthesis There were no cases of maternal mortality. The mean gestational age at delivery was of 35.6±2.4 weeks in the intervention group, and of 37.4±1.9 weeks among the controls (p<0.01). Survival until 6 months of age was reported in 50% of the intervention group, and in 5.8% of the controls (p<0.01; relative risk: 10.5; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.5-74.7). Severe postnatal pulmonary hypertension was found in 50% of the infants in the intervention group, and in 85.7% of controls (p=0.02; relative risk: 0.6; 95%CI: 0.4-0.9). An analysis of the study indicated some concerns of risk of bias. The quality of evidence was considered moderate to low. Conclusion Current evidence is limited but suggests that FETO may be an effective intervention to improve perinatal outcomes.

Resumo Objetivo Comparar os resultados perinatais de fetos com hérnia diafragmática congênita após oclusão traqueal endoscópica fetal (OTEF) e conduta expectante pré-natal. Fontes dos dados Nesta revisão rápida, pesquisas foram conduzidas nas bases de dados MEDLINE, PMC, EMBASE e CENTRAL entre 10 de agosto de 2020 e 4 de setembro de 2020. Ensaios clínicos randomizados (ECRs), quase-ECRs e ECRs em cluster publicados em inglês nos últimos dez anos foram incluídos. Seleção dos estudos Foram recuperadas 203 publicações; 180 destas foram triadas pelo resumo. Fez-se a leitura do texto completo de 8 estudos, e 1 ECR cumpriu os critérios de inclusão (41 mulheres aleatorizadas; 20 no grupo OTEF e 21 no grupo de controle). Coleta de dados A coleta de dados realizada independentemente pelos dois autores, em duas etapas (título e resumo, e leitura do texto completo). Síntese dos dados Não houve casos de mortematerna. A idade gestacionalmédia no parto foi de 35,6±2,4 semanas no grupo de intervenção, e de 37,4±1,9 semanas entre os controles (p<0,01). A sobrevida até 6 meses de idade foi relatada em 50% do grupo de intervenção, e em 5,8% dos controles (p<0,01; risco relativo: 10,5; intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC95%]: 1,5-74,7). Hipertensão pulmonar grave ocorreu em 50% dos lactentes do grupo de intervenção, e em 85,7% dos controles (p = 0.02; risco relativo: 0,6; IC95%: 0,4-0,9). Uma análise do estudo indicou algumas preocupações quanto ao risco de viés. A qualidade da evidência foi considerada de moderada a baixa. Conclusão As evidências atuais são limitadas,mas sugeremque a OTEF pode ser uma intervenção eficaz para melhorar resultados perinatais.

Diagnosis and treatment of adult diaphragmatic hernia / 中华消化外科杂志

The etiology of diaphragmatic hernia in adults is mainly congenital and traumatic, its overall incidence in adults is low, and adult diaphragmatic hernia is easily misdiagnosed and missed diagnosis because of lacking specificity in clinical presentation. There is no clinical guidelines or consensus for the diagnosis and treatment of diaphragmatic hernia in adults. The authors inquire into the diagnosis and treatment of diaphragmatic hernia in adults by summarizing relevant litera-tures and combining with clinical practice, and recommend that multi-slice spiral computed tomo-graphy should be promptly refined for suspected cases, especially focusing on sagittal images. The symptomatic patients should be repaired promptly, with a preference for laparoscopic surgery, and mesh augmentation is recommended in those with larger defects.

A randomized controlled trial of early intervention of external diaphragmatic electrical stimulation on diaphragmatic function in mechanically ventilated children / 中国小儿急救医学

Objective:To explore the effects of external diaphragm electrical stimulation on the diaphragm thickness and function in mechanically ventilated children.Methods:A randomized controlled trial was conducted in children who were admitted to PICU at Children′s Hospital of Fudan University and received mechanical ventilation between June 2021 and April 2022.The control group was given the routine treatment of mechanical ventilation, and the intervention group was given external diaphragm electrical stimulation in the early stage of mechanical ventilation in addition to routine treatment.Diaphragm thickness was continuously measured by bedside ultrasound every day for one week after mechanical ventilation, and the changing trend of diaphragm thickness was observed, and the diaphragmatic thickening fraction (DTf) and the incidence of ventilator-induced diaphragmtic dysfunction(VIDD) were calculated at the same time.Results:A total of 32 valid samples were included, including 15 cases in intervention group (10 males) and 17 cases in control group (11 males). The median age of the patients was 33 (10, 77) months, and the median duration of mechanical ventilation was 12 (8, 21) days.The reasons for mechanical ventilation in children included respiratory insufficiency in ten cases, brain dysfunction in ten cases, heart failure in eight cases, and postoperative surgery in four cases.The diaphragm end-expiratory thickness (DTe) in intervention group and the control group showed a gradually decreasing trend from the 1st day to the 7th day.The left thickness was reduced by 11% on the 7th day compared to 1st day in intervention group, which was reduced by 18% in control group; the average daily DTe was reduced by 2% per day in intervention group and by 3% per day in control group.The trends on the right and left were similar.The DTe thickness in the intervention group was greater than that in control group, among which, the mean DTe thickness in the left side of the intervention group on the 7th day was (0.110 7±0.023 7)cm, which was greater than that in control group (0.093 5±0.016 9)cm, and the difference was statistically significant ( t=-2.372, P<0.05); On the second day, the mean DTe thickness on the right side in the intervention group was (0.1267±0.0277) cm, which was greater than that in control group (0.104 7±0.018 1)cm, and the difference was statistically significant ( t=-2.688, P<0.05). DTf in the intervention group was lower than that in control group at 7th day, but the difference was not statistically significant(left DTf: adjusted mean difference was -0.117, P=0.088; right DTf: adjusted mean difference was -0.065, P=0.277). The incidence of VIDD in the intervention group was lower than that in control group(33.3% vs.41.2%), but the difference was not statistically significant ( χ2=0.005, P=0.946). Conclusion:External diaphragmatic electrical stimulation may be helpful for alleviating diaphragmatic atrophy in mechanically ventilated children.However, whether the improvement of diaphragm atrophy is beneficial to clinical outcome still needs further study.