Extrapleural closure of patent Ductus Arteriosus: how we do it

Abstract Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a clinical condition mostly found in premature newborns. Among several medical, surgical and interventional treatment options, extrapleural ligation through a left minithoracotomy is recognized as a safe, efficient and less expensive technique. In fact, it requires short surgical times, grants good exposure of the duct and nearby structures (e.g., thoracic duct, left recurrent laryngeal nerve), and avoids pleural space opening and subsequent pulmonary complications in preterm patients. This approach seems ideal due to its lower costs, especially in developing countries with a high birth rate and limited resources.

Perfil epidemiológico da criança e do adolescente com fissura oral atendidos em um centro de referência em Curitiba, PR, Brasil / Epidemiological profile of children and adolescents with oral cleft treated at a referral center in Curitiba, PR, Brazil

INTRODUÇÃO: A fissura oral é a segunda maior causa de anomalias congênitas e representa a principal alteração craniofacial em nascidos vivos. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar os dados epidemiológicos do Centro de Atenção Integral ao Fissurado Labiopalatal, no período entre janeiro de 2011 e dezembro de 2014. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo utilizando prontuários clínicos. Foram avaliados 1262 prontuários de pacientes portadores de fissura oral. Após aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, 52,7% prontuários foram incluídos no estudo. RESULTADOS: Entre os 666 prontuários, 57,4% foram do gênero masculino e 42,6% do feminino. Verificou-se que 34,8% dos pacientes apresentaram fissuras transforame, 27,2% fissuras pré-forame, 25,8% fissuras pós-forame e 12,2% outros tipos de fissuras. Pacientes oriundos de Curitiba e Região Metropolitana correspondem a 36,6%, aqueles do Interior do Paraná abrangem 61% dos atendimentos no Centro de Atenção. As medianas de idade na primeira consulta, entre os pacientes de Curitiba e Região Metropolitana e do Interior do Paraná, são de 1 mês e 2 meses, respectivamente. E a primeira cirurgia, realizada no Centro de Atenção, foi em torno de 6 meses, nos pacientes de Curitiba e Região Metropolitana, e de 7 meses naqueles oriundos do Interior do Paraná. CONCLUSÃO: Verificou-se predomínio de fissuras em meninos e maior frequência da fissura pós-forame incompleta. Observou-se que, apesar da distância, as crianças oriundas do Interior do Paraná realizaram a cirurgia de correção e chegaram ao centro de referência com apenas um mês de diferença em relação aquelas da cidade sede do Centro de Atenção Integral ao Fissurado Labiopalatal.

INTRODUCTION: Oral cleft is the second major cause of congenital anomalies and represents a major craniofacial alteration in live births. The objective of this study was to analyze the epidemiological data collected from the Center for Comprehensive Care to Individuals with Cleft Lip and Palate in the period from January 2011 to December 2014. METHODS: This retrospective study evaluated 1,262 medical records of patients with an oral cleft. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 52.7% of the medical records were included in the study. RESULTS: Among the 666 medical records, 57.4% were of male patients and 42.6% were of female patients. Of these, 34.8% of the patients had a trans-foramen cleft, 27.2% had a pre-foramen cleft, 25.8% had a post-foramen cleft, and 12.2% had another type of cleft. Patients from Curitiba and the metropolitan region constituted 36.6% of the cases, and patients from rural areas of Paraná represented 61% of the visits to the care center. The median age at the first visit of the patients from Curitiba/metropolitan region and rural areas of Paraná was 1 and 2 months, respectively. The first surgery was performed at the care center at the age of 6 months in patients from Curitiba and metropolitan region and 7 months in patients from rural areas of Paraná. CONCLUSION: There was a predominance of boys and a higher prevalence of incomplete post-foramen clefts in the total population. Despite the long distance to the care center, children from rural areas of Paraná underwent the correction surgery and were treated at the referral center with an age difference of only 1 month compared with patients who lived in Curitiba, where the care center is located.

Nutritional management and postoperative prognosis of newborns submitted to primary surgical repair of gastroschisis / Manejo nutricional e prognóstico pós-operatório do recém-nascido submetido à correção cirúrgica primária de gastrosquise

Abstract Objective Gastroschisis is a defect of the abdominal wall, resulting in congenital evisceration and requiring neonatal intensive care, early surgical correction, and parenteral nutrition. This study evaluated newborns with gastroschisis, seeking to associate nutritional characteristics with time of hospital stay. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of 49 newborns undergoing primary repair of gastroschisis between January 1995 and December 2010. The newborns’ characteristics were described with emphasis on nutritional aspects, correlating them with length of hospital stay. Results The characteristics that influenced length of hospital stay were: (1) newborn small for gestational age (SGA); (2) use of antibiotics; (3) day of life when enteral feeding was started; (4) day of life when full diet was reached. SGA infants had longer length of hospital stay (24.2%) than other newborns. The length of hospital stay was increased by 2.1% for each additional day taken to introduce enteral feeding. However, slower onset of full enteral feeding acted as a protective factor, decreasing length of stay by 3.6%. The volume of waste drained by the stomach catheter in the 24 h prior the start of enteral feeding was not associated with the timing of diet introduction or length of hospital stay. Conclusion Early start of enteral feeding and small, gradual increase of volume can shorten the use of parenteral nutrition. This management strategy contributes to reduce the incidence of infection and length of hospital stay of newborns with gastroschisis.

Resumo Objetivo A gastrosquise é uma malformação da parede abdominal que resulta em evisceração congênita e requer tratamento intensivo neonatal, correção cirúrgica precoce e nutrição parenteral. Investigaram-se neste estudo os recém-nascidos com gastrosquise e procurou-se correlacionar as suas características nutricionais com o tempo da internação hospitalar. Métodos Estudo de coorte retrospectivo de 49 recém-nascidos submetidos à correção primária de gastrosquise de janeiro de 1995 a dezembro de 2010. As características dos neonatos foram descritas com ênfase nos aspectos nutricionais e relacionadas com o tempo de internação hospitalar. Resultados As características que influenciaram a duração da internação foram: 1) recém-nascidos pequenos para a idade gestacional (PIG); 2) uso de antibióticos; 3) dia de vida ao iniciar a dieta enteral; 4) dia de vida ao atingir a dieta plena. Recém-nascidos PIG tiveram maior tempo de internação (24,2%) do que demais neonatos. O tempo de internação foi aumentado em 2,1% para cada dia a mais que se demorou a introduzir a dieta enteral. Entretanto, atingir mais lentamente o aporte pleno da dieta enteral agiu como fator protetor, diminuiu 3,6% no tempo de internação. O volume de resíduo drenado pelo cateter gástrico, nas últimas 24 horas antes do início da dieta enteral, não apresentou correlação com o momento da introdução da dieta nem com a duração da hospitalização. Conclusão Iniciar a dieta enteral precocemente, com aumento gradativo em pequenos volumes, pode abreviar a duração da nutrição parenteral. Esse manejo contribui para a diminuição da incidência de infecções e do tempo de hospitalização de recém-nascidos com gastrosquise.

Ressonância de fala e complicações cirúrgicas após palatoplastia primária com veloplastia intravelar em pacientes com fissura de lábio e palato / Speech resonance and surgical complications after primary palatoplasty with intravelar veloplasty in patients with cleft lip and palate

INTRODUÇÃO: A correção cirúrgica primária do palato é de fundamental importância na reabilitação do indivíduo com fissura labiopalatina e visa tanto a restauração anatômica local, com o fechamento da comunicação existente entre a cavidade nasal e oral, como a restauração funcional do anel velofaríngeo por meio do reposicionamento dos músculos palatinos. Ao longo dos anos, as técnicas de fechamento de palato foram evoluindo progressivamente, utilizando, cada vez mais, o procedimento de reposicionamento da musculatura responsável pelo fechamento do esfíncter velofaríngeo, denominado veloplastia intravelar. Tal procedimento favorece o funcionamento sinérgico da musculatura velar e faríngea, evitando, assim, os sintomas decorrentes da insuficiência velofaríngea. No entanto, apesar de todos os esforços no sentido de conseguir o funcionamento velofaríngeo adequado, intercorrências intraoperatórias e complicações pós-operatórias imediatas e/ou tardias podem contribuir para o insucesso da palatoplastia primária e, consequentemente, levar ao aparecimento de hipernasalidade. MÉTODOS: Sessenta pacientes submetidos à palatoplastia primária com veloplastia intravelar. Intercorrências intraoperatórias e complicações pós-operatórias imediatas e tardias foram investigadas. A presença e localização de fístula ou deiscência do palato foi feita por meio de avaliação clínica. Os pacientes foram submetidos, também, à gravação em áudio de amostra de fala, as quais foram analisadas por três fonoaudiólogas. As intercorrências intraoperatórias e as complicações pós-operatórias foram analisadas de forma descritiva. A associação entre as intercorrências intraoperatórias e complicações imediatas e tardias com a formação de fístulas, bem como a associação entre a ocorrência de fístulas e deiscências com a presença e ausência de hipernasalidade, foram analisadas por meio de Teste de Fisher. RESULTADOS: Verificou-se 5% de intercorrências intraoperatórias, 20% de complicações imediatas e 13,3% de complicações tardias. O índice de fístulas foi de 16,67%. A proporção de hipernasalidade foi de 18,6%. CONCLUSÃO: A palatoplastia com veloplastia intravelar utilizada no presente estudo demonstrou ser uma técnica segura, de fácil execução, eficiente para a fala e com baixos índices de complicações.

INTRODUCTION: The primary surgical correction of the palate is of fundamental importance in the rehabilitation of individuals with labiopalatine cleft and aims for local anatomical restoration and closure of the existing communication between the nasal and oral cavities, such as functional restoration of the velopharyngeal ring through repositioning of the palatine muscles. Palate closure techniques have evolved progressively over the years and increasingly involve repositioning of the muscles responsible for closing the velopharyngeal sphincter, called intravelar veloplasty. This procedure encourages the synergistic operation of the velar and pharyngeal musculature, thereby avoiding the symptoms resulting from velopharyngeal insufficiency. However, despite efforts to achieve adequate velopharyngeal function, intraoperative events and immediate postoperative and/or late complications may contribute to primary palatoplasty failure and consequently lead to hypernasality. METHODS: Sixty patients underwent primary palatoplasty with intravelar veloplasty. Intraoperative events and immediate and late postoperative complications were investigated. The presence and location of palatal fistula or dehiscence was assessed by clinical evaluation. The patients also made an audio recording of their speech that was analyzed by three speech therapists. The intraoperative events and postoperative complications were descriptively analyzed. The association between intraoperative events and immediate and late postoperative complications with the formation of fistulae as well as that between the occurrence of fistulae and dehiscences and the presence and absence of hypernasality was analyzed using Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: Overall, there was a 5% incidence of intraoperative events, 20% incidence of immediate complications, and 13.3% incidence of late complications. Fistulae and hypernasality were found in 16.67% and 18.6% of cases, respectively. CONCLUSION: Palatoplasty with intravelar veloplasty is a safe and easily implemented technique that is efficient for speech and has low complication rates.

Incidência de fistula após palatoplastia à Von Langenbeck com veloplastia intravelar estendida / Incidence of cleft palate fistula after von Langenbeck palatoplasty with extended intravelar veloplasty

Introdução: A fissura labiopalatina é a deformidade craniofacial mais frequente e sua incidência é estimada em 1:600 nascidos vivos no Brasil. O objetivo desse estudo é avaliar a incidência de fístulas para os pacientes submetidos à palatoplastia com veloplastia intravelar estendida. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo descritivo retrospectivo com 25 pacientes que foram operados pelo mesmo cirurgião no período de setembro de 2011 a setembro de 2012. A técnica de Von Langenbeck, juntamente com a veloplastia intravelar estendida, foi realizada em todos os pacientes. Foram excluídos do estudo os pacientes com fístulas palatinas, portadores de síndromes ou outras malformações. A idade média da realização da palatoplastia foi de 30,6 meses, variando de 12 meses a 159 meses. Foram selecionados 19 pacientes: onze (58%) do gênero masculino e oito (42%) do gênero feminino. A fissura palatal isolada foi a mais comum, encontrada em nove (47%) pacientes. A fissura transforame esquerda estava presente em sete (37%) pacientes e três (16%) pacientes eram portadores de fissura transforame bilateral. Resultados: Somente dois (11%) pacientes evoluíram com fístula palatina até o acompanhamento pós-operatório de 6 meses. Conclusão: A técnica de Von Langenbeck associada à veloplastia estendida mostrou-se com baixa incidência de fístulas palatinas (11%) quando comparada ao índice encontrado na literatura mundial (7% a 42%).

Introduction: Cleft lip and palate is the most common craniofacial deformity, with an estimated incidence of 1 case per 600 live births in Brazil. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of fistula among patients undergoing palatoplasty with extended intravelar veloplasty. Methods: This retrospective descriptive study evaluated 25 patients operated between September 2011 and September 2012 by the same surgeon. The von Langenbeck technique combined with extended intravelar veloplasty was performed in all patients. The study excluded patients with palatal fistulas, syndromes, or other malformations. The age at palatoplasty varied between 12 and 159 months, and the average age was 30.6 months. Nineteen patients were selected, comprising 11 (58%) male patients and 8 (42%) female patients. Isolated cleft palate was the most common deformity, found in 9 (47%) patients. Unilateral (left) trans-foramen cleft was present in 7 (37%) patients, and bilateral trans-foramen cleft was seen in 3 (16%) patients. Results: Only 2 (11%) patients had palatal fistula in a postoperative follow-up period of 6 months. Conclusion: The von Langenbeck technique associated with extended veloplasty resulted in a low incidence of cleft palate fistulas (11%) compared with the rate found in previous studies (7%-42%).

Cirugía mínimamente invasiva en recién nacidos de < 2. 500 g / Minimally invasive surgery in newborns weighting less than 2, 500 g

Newborns (NB) represent a surgical challenge for the surgeon due to their physiological characteristics and reduced surgical spaces. During the last decade, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has been adopted as a treatment for this group of patients. Objective: To report our experiences of MIS on NB weighing less than 2,500 grams. Patients and Method: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted analyzing the records of newborns weighing less than 2,500 g and subjected to MIS between April, 2009 and 2012. No patients were excluded. Results: 25 newborns participated on this study; among the treated conditions, congenital diaphragmatic hernia (1), Esophageal Atresia (4 complete repairs and 2 fistula ligation), duodenal obstruction (7), Gastroesophageal reflux disease (6 Nissen procedures, 4 including gastrostomy), Laparoscopic gastrostomy (2) Intestinal obstruction (two bowel resections, end to end anastomosis), and Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (1). The average weight was 1,920 g (1,300-2,490 g) and 10 of the infants were preterm newborns. 3 mm instruments were used, 5 mm optic 30°. Neither intraoperative complications nor conversions were observed. A patient with tracheoesophageal atresia presented a fistula at the site of anastomosis with spontaneous resolution. Conclusions: MIS has revolutionized surgery, resulting in less intestinal adhesions, postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays and better aesthetic results. Due to the availability of smaller size materials, these procedures could be performed safely.

El Recién Nacido (RN) quirúrgico representa un reto para el cirujano, por sus características fisiológicas y espacios quirúrgicos reducidos. Durante la última década se incorporó la cirugía mínimamente invasiva (CMI) en este grupo de pacientes. Objetivo: Reportar nuestra experiencia en CMI en RN < 2.500 g. Pacientes y Método: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo, se analizaron fichas de RN < 2.500 g sometidos a CMI entre abril de 2009 y abril de 2012. No se excluyeron pacientes. Resultados: Se incluyeron 25 RN. Las patologías resueltas fueron: Hernia diafragmática congénita (1), Atresia Esofágica (4 reparaciones completas, 2 ligaduras de fístula), Obstrucción Duodenal (7), Reflujo Gastro-esofágico (6 operaciones de Nissen; 4 con gastrostomía), gastrostomía laparoscópica (2), Obstrucción Intestinal (2 resecciones intestinales, anastomosis término-terminal), Estenosis Hipertrófica del Píloro (1). Peso promedio: 1.920 gr (1.300-2.490 gr), 10 RN pre-término. Se utilizó instrumental de 3 milímetros (mm), óptica de 5 mm de 30°. No se presentaron complicaciones intra-operatorias, ni conversión. Un paciente con atresia tráqueo-esofágica, presentó una fístula en el sitio de anastomosis con resolución espontánea. Conclusiones: La CMI ha revolucionado la cirugía, manifestándose en disminución de adherencias intestinales, menor dolor postoperatorio, estadías hospitalarias más cortas y mejor resultado estético. Con el desarrollo material de menor tamaño, estos procedimientos se pudieron realizar en forma segura en esta serie.

Fatores preditivos de complicações graves em cirurgia neonatal / Predictors of major postoperative complications in neonatal surgery

OBJETIVO: investigar a incidência e gravidade das complicações pós-operatórias precoces e identificar fatores de risco para o seu desenvolvimento em recém-nascidos submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico, sob anestesia geral. MÉTODOS: análise retrospectiva dos dados de 437 neonatos com doença crítica submetidos à cirurgia neonatal num centro cirúrgico pediátrico terciário, entre janeiro de 2000 e dezembro de 2010. A gravidade das complicações ocorridas nos primeiros 30 dias de pós-operatório foi classificada utilizando o sistema de Clavien-Dindo para complicações cirúrgicas, sendo considerados graves os graus III a V. Por análise estatística uni e multivariada avaliaram-se variáveis pré e intraoperatórias com potencial preditivo de complicações pós-operatórias graves. RESULTADOS: a incidência de, pelo menos, uma complicação grave foi 23%, com uma mediana de uma complicação por paciente 1:3. Ao todo, ocorreram 121 complicações graves. Destas, 86 necessitaram de intervenção cirúrgica, endoscópica ou radiológica (grau III), 25 puseram em risco a vida, com disfunção uni ou multi-órgão (grau IV) e dez resultaram na morte do paciente (grau V). As principais complicações foram técnicas (25%), gastrointestinais (22%) e respiratórias (21%). Foram identificados quatro fatores de risco independentes para complicações pós-operatórias graves: reoperação, operação por hérnia diafragmática congênita, prematuridade menor que 32 semanas de idade gestacional e cirurgia abdominal. CONCLUSÃO: a incidência de complicações pós-operatórias graves após cirurgias neonatais, sob anestesia geral, permaneceu elevada. As condições consideradas fatores de risco independentes para complicações graves após a cirurgia neonatal podem ajudar a definir o prognóstico pós-operatório em neonatos com doença cirúrgica e orientar as intervenções para melhoria de resultados.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the incidence and severity of early postoperative complications and to identify their risk factors in newborns undergoing surgery under general anesthesia. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of data from 437 critically ill newborns undergoing surgery in a tertiary pediatric surgical center, between January 2000 and December 2010. Complications that occurred within the first 30 days after surgery were classified using the Clavien-Dindo system, for which grades III to V were considered severe. We used univariate and multivariate analysis to evaluate pre- and intraoperative variables potentially predictive of severe postoperative complications. RESULTS: The incidence of at least one serious complication was 23%, with a median of one complication per patient 1:3. Altogether, there were 121 serious complications. Of these, 86 required surgical, endoscopic or radiological interventions (grade III), 25 endangered life, with uni or multi-organ failure (grade IV) and ten resulted in death (grade V). The most common complications were technical (25%), gastrointestinal (22%) and respiratory (21%). We identified four independent risk factors for severe postoperative complications: reoperation, operation for congenital diaphragmatic hernia, preterm birth less than 32 weeks of gestational age and abdominal surgery. CONCLUSION: The incidence of severe postoperative complications after neonatal surgeries under general anesthesia remains high. The conditions considered independent risk factors for those can guide interventions to improve results.

Estenosis Hipertrófica Pilórica en menores de 2 meses / Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in children under 2 months age

Introducción: La estenosis hipertrófica del píloro es uno de los trastornos quirúrgicos más frecuentes en las obstrucciones digestivas en el recién nacido. Las complicaciones que se presentan ponen en riesgo la vida del infante por lo que es importante el diagnóstico y la corrección precoz. Objetivo: Caracterizar la estenosis hipertrófica congénita del píloro en menores de 2 meses atendidos en el Servicio de Cirugía Infantil del Hospital Central del Instituto de Previsión Social, en el periodo comprendido entre los años 2006 y 2012. Metodología: En un estudio observacional descriptivo de corte transversal fueron evaluados 30 casos, tratados quirúrgicamente mediante la técnica de Ramsted­Fredet, las variables estudiadas fueron sexo, edad en semanas,tiempo transcurrido para el diagnóstico, métodos de diagnóstico, consulta previa, alteración y tiempo de corrección del medio interno. Resultados: La frecuencia de la patología fue 20,4%, con una edad promedio de 4,5 semanas. El 86,7% de los afectados fueron del sexo masculino y el 63,3% de los pacientes pertenecieron al área de Gran Asunción. El 70,0% de los casos eran primogénitos. La oliva pilórica pudo ser palpada en el 66,7% de los casos. Los lactantes obtuvieron buena respuesta al esquema terapéutico de corrección del medio interno logrado a las 24 horas en el 56,7%. No se presentaron complicaciones post quirúrgicas. Conclusión: El riesgo que conlleva esta patología y la efectiva solución quirúrgica determina la importancia del diagnóstico temprano, a fin de instaurar un adecuado tratamiento; por ello es importante promover el conocimiento en el personal médico en el primer anillo de consulta del niño. Palabras clave: Píloro, Vómitos, Lactante.

Introduction: Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is one of the most common surgical disorders in digestive blockages in the newborn. Complications arise threatening the infant's life, so early diagnosis and correction is significant. Objective: To characterize congenital hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in children under 2 months age seen at the Department of Paediatric Surgery, Central Hospital of Social Security Institute, in the period between 2006 and 2012. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study, were evaluated 30 cases surgically treated by the technique of Ramsted - Fredet , the variables studied were sex, age in weeks , time to diagnosis, diagnostic methods, previous consulting, alteration and correction time of the internal environment. Results: The frequency of the disorder was 20,4%, with an average age of 4,5 weeks. 86,7% of patients were male and 63,3 % of patients belonged to the Great Asunción area. 70,0 % of cases were first-born. The pyloric olive could be palpated in 66,7% of cases. Infants obtained good therapeutic response with correction scheme of the internal environment, achieved at 24 hours at 56,7%. No postoperative complications. Conclusion: The risk of this pathology and effective surgical solution determines the importance of early diagnosis, in order to begin a correct treatment; so it is important to promote knowledge in the medical staff at the first ring of child consultation. Keywords: Pylorus, Vomiting, Infant.

Anastomosis primaria en enterocolitis necrotizante / Primary anastomosis in necrotizing enterocolitis

Introduction: Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NE) is the most frequent gastrointestinal emergency among newborns (NB). Thirty percent of them require surgical treatment, with resection of the damaged intestinal segment and stoma formation. In some cases, primary resection and anastomosis can be considered. Objective: To review the use of primary anastomosis on NE in 2 pediatric centers, one public hospital and one private clinic. Patients and Method: A retrospective, descriptive study of all NB with NE managed with primary anastomosis at Hospital Exequiel González Cortés y Clínica Las Condes between December 2004 and december 2009. The population was divided into Group A: Unifocal, and Group B: Multifocal intestinal involvement. The following variables were evaluated and compared: gestational age, weight, use of peritoneal drains, characteristics of the resected segment, number of anastomoses, requirement of parenteral nutrition, postoperatory complications. Results: Sixty NB were surgically repaired with primary anastomosis. 12 percent presented birth weight <1.000grams, 22 percent between 1000-1500 grams. In 18 patients 2 anastomoses were performed in different intestinal segments. Postoperatory complications included wound infection in 3 cases and dehiscence of the anastomosis in 1 case. 7 percent evolved with short loop syndrome. Mortality was 11,6 percent, secondary to sepsis. Conclusions: In this experience, Primary Anastomosis in NE appears to be a safe option, with low morbimortality despite the age, weight, IP contamination or extension of the disease.

Introducción: Enterocolitis Necrotizante (ECN) es la emergencia gastrointestinal más común del recién nacido (RN), 30 por ciento requiere tratamiento quirúrgico, con resección del segmento intestinal dañado, realizando luego una ostomía en la mayoría. En recientes casos la resección intestinal y anastomosis primaria han sido reportados en forma exitosa. Objetivo: Evaluar la experiencia del manejo con anastomosis primaria en ECN en 2 centros pediátricos, un Hospital público y una Clínica privada. Pacientes y Método: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo. Se incluyó a RN del Hospital Exequiel González Cortés y Clínica Las Condes con ECN manejados con anastomosis primaria, entre diciembre de 2004 y diciembre de 2009. Se dividieron en Grupo A: Unifocal; Grupo B: Compromiso intestinal multifocal. Se comparó entre ambos grupos: edad gestacional, peso, utilización de drenajes peritoneales, características del segmento resecado, número de anastomosis, requerimientos de nutrición parenteral, complicaciones postoperatorias. Resultados: Se sometió a cirugía con anastomosis primaria a 60 recién nacidos. El peso de nacimiento fue < 1 000 g en el 12 por ciento, 1 000-1 500 g el 22 por ciento, y el resto >1 500 g. En 18 pacientes del grupo B se realizaron 2 anastomosis en segmentos intestinales diferentes. Las complicaciones postoperatorias fueron infección de herida operatoria (n:3) y dehiscencia de anastomosis (n:1). Un 7 por ciento evolucionó con síndrome de intestino corto. La mortalidad fue 11,6 por ciento, en todos los casos secundaria a sepsis. Conclusiones: En esta experiencia la Anastomosis Primaria en ECN aparece como una opción segura, con baja morbimortalidad independiente de la edad, peso, contaminación intraperitoneal o extensión de la enfermedad.

Value of abdominal pressure measurement in neonatal abdominal surgical emergencies

To assess the predictive and prognostic value of abdominal pressure measurement in neonatal abdominal surgical emergencies. Case series. Zagazig University Hospitals [Egypt] and King Fahd Hospital, Hofuf [KSA]. Seventy nine neonatal abdominal surgical emergencies admitted and managed over a four-year period [Jan 2005 to Jan 2009] Measurement of abdominal pressure through management period. Abdominal pressure was classified into pressure at presentation [T1], preoperative [T2], and postoperative pressure [T3]. The levels of pressure were classified into [pA] below 12 mmHg, [pB] 12-20 mmHg, and [pC] more than 20 mmHg. Seventy-nine neonates were included. There was significant high abdominal pressure in jejunoileal atresia, necrotizing enterocolitis [NEC], and duodenal obstruction. In pyloric stenosis, there was no significant abdominal hypertension all over the management period. Temporary elevations occurred preoperatively [T1] in meconium ileus, cecal perforation, and jejunal stenosis. Significant association was found between [T1] and mortality, postoperative blood transfusion, need for mechanical ventilation, and sepsis. No correlation was found with blood need or sepsis. Postoperative complications had significant association with elevated postoperative abdominal pressure [T3]. Intra-abdominal pressure [IAP] can be of importance in monitoring changes which accompany neonatal surgical emergencies. It can be of predictive and prognostic value in neonatal surgical emergencies. However, more controlled studies are needed to confirm this conclusion

Balloon Valvuloplasty for Neonatal Critical Pulmonary Valvar Stenosis with IVC Interruption: Pitfalls of the Transumbilical Approach

Transcatheter balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty (BPV) is considered to be the treatment of choice for neonates with critical pulmonary valvar stenosis (PVS) or pulmonary valvar atresia with intact ventricular septum accompanied by reasonable right ventricular volume. The percutaneous femoral venous access is the most preferred route for BPV in most cardiac centers. We report herein the case of a newborn baby with critical PVS with inferior vena cava interruption, severe tricuspid regurgitation and a severely enlarged right atrium. We tried BPV through the transumbilical approach with difficulty, but he was successfully treated with the assistance of a coronary artery guiding catheter.

Necrotizing enterocolitis in premature babies; Laparotomy versus peritoneal drainage

Premature infants with necrotizing enterocolitis [NEC] or intestinal perforation [IP] are treated either surgically with laprotomy or peritoneal drain placement. [1] To develop a hypothesis about the relative effect of these 2 therapies on risk adjusted outcomes through 18 months in premature infants. [2] To obtain data that would be useful in designing and conducting a successful trial of this hypothesis. A prospective, observational study. In pediatric surgical departments of Military Hospital Rawalpindi and Combined Military Hospital Rawalpindi. From Nov 2005 to April 2007. To assist in risk adjustment, the attending pediatric surgeon recorded the preoperative diagnosis and intraoperative diagnosis and identified infants who were considered to be too ill for laprotomy. Severe NEC or IP in 156 of 2987 premature infants; 80 were treated with initial drainage and 76 were treated with initial laprotomy. By 16 months, 76 [50%] had died; outcome remained worse in subgroup with NEC. Laprotomy was not performed in 76% [28 of 36] of drain treated survivors. Drainage was commonly used, and outcome was poor. Our findings, particularly the risk adjusted odds ratio favoring laparotomy, indicate the need for a large, multicenter clinical trial to assess the effect of initial surgery therapy on out come at > 16 months

Surgical procedures performed in the neonatal intensive care unit on critically ill neonates: feasibility and safety

Transferring unstable, ill neonates to and from the operating room carries significant risks and can lead to morbidity. We report on our experience in performing certain procedures in critically ill neonates in the neonatal intensive care unit [NICU]. We examined the feasibility and safety of such an approach. All surgical procedures performed in the the NICU between January 1999 and December 2005 were analyzed in terms of demographic data, diagnosis, preoperative stability of the patient, procedures performed, complications and outcome. Operations were performed at bedside in the NICU in critically ill, unstable neonates who needed emergency surgery, in neonates of very low birth weight [<1000 g] and in neonates on special equipment like high frequency ventilators and nitrous oxide. Thirty-seven surgical procedures were performed including 12 laparotomies, bowel resections and stomies, 7 repairs of congenital diaphragmatic hernias, 4 ligations of patent ductus arteriosus, and various others. Birthweights ranged between 850 g and 3500 g [mean, 2000 g]. Gestational age ranged between 25 to 42 weeks [mean, 33 weeks]. Age at surgery was between 1 to 30 days [mean, 10 days]. Preoperatively, 19 patients [51.3%] were on inotropic support and all were intubated and mechanically ventilated. There was no mortality related to surgical procedures. Postoperatively, one patient developed wound infection and disruption. Performing major surgical procedures in the the NICU is both feasible and safe. It is useful in very low birth weight, critically ill neonates who have a definite risk attached to transfer to the operating room. No special area is needed in the the NICU to perform complication-free surgery, but designing an operating room within the the NICU would be ideal

Atresia congénita del colon: reporte de un caso y revisión de la literatura / Congenital colon atresia: case repòrt review

Se informa el primer caso de atresia congénita de colon diagnosticado y operado en el Hospital de Especialidades del Instituto Hondureño de Seguridad Social en Tegucigalpa. Se trata de una paciente de sexo femenino que se presentó al tercer día de vida en la Sala de Emergencia con cuadro de obstrucción intestinal. Fue intervenido quirúrgicamente encontrando una atresia de colon a nivel de ángulo esplénico realizándole una coloplastía reductiva mas anastomósis colocólica en un plano. Evolucionó satisfactoriamente dándosele el alta al octavo día postoperatorio. La paciente se controla periódicamente en la Consulta Externa de Cirugía. su control regular demuestra una evolución asintomática con peso y talla adecuado a los 10 meses de edad...

Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis at birth. A Case report and review of literature

Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis [HPS] is one of the common surgical emergencies in the newborn, needing surgery in the first few weeks of life. However, its presentation at birth is rare. A full term infant presented with hypertrophic pyloric obstruction at birth and was managed successfully by pyloromyotomy. This case is the first encountered in the department of Pediatric Surgery in the Sultanate of Oman and is reported for its rarity and to alert the pediatrician about the uncommon presentation of the common disease

Estenosis pulmonar valvular crítica del recién nacido; valvuloplastía con globo efectuada usando un asa arterio-venosa y dilataciones secuenciales / Critical pulmonary valve stenosis in neonates; its treatment with ballon valvuloplasty using and arteriovenous loop and gradational dilatations

La estenosis pulmonar valvular crítica del recién nacido es una urgencia donde la valvuloplastía puede representar su corrección definitiva. Este recurso tiene particularidades técnicas importantes, relacionadas a la edad y peso del paciente, y a factores anatómicos que contribuyen a la obstrucción. Se presenta el caso de un neonato de 20 días con este problema, en el que el empleo de una asa arterio-venosa a través del conducto arterioso permitió el paso de globos con diámetro progresivamente mayor hasta llegar a la relación globo/anillo de 1.4. Este abordaje puede emplearse con seguridad en casos donde existan dificultades para aplicar la técnica habitual y permite lograr la dilatación valvular adecuada

Diagnóstico ecográfico antenatal de síndrome de Apple Peel / Prenatal echography diagnosis of Apple-Peel's syndrome

Se presenta un caso de obstrucción intestinal congénita debida a atresia yeyuno-ileal tipo III B correspondiente a un síndrome de apple peel. La malformación fue diagnosticada a las 32 semanas de embarazo, el que terminó en cesárea a las 34 semanas. El recién nacido fue intervenido, realizándose una resección con anastomosis yeyuno-yeyunal término-terminal. Se revisan y comentan los aspectos embriológicos, anatómicos, diagnósticos, evolutivos y terapéuticos del síndrome de apple peel en particular y de las atresias intestinales en general, señalando su clasificación en 5 categorías

Técnica de server-L'Episcopo en parálisis del plexo braquial perinatal / Server-L'Episcopo technique in paralysis of the perinatal branchial plexus

Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de 54 pacientes que consultaron con el diagnóstico de Parálisis Braquial perinatal y que fueron intervenidos quirúrgicamente empleando la técnica de Server-L'Episcopo en el Hospital San Juan de Dios de Caracas, desde el año 1971 hasta el 2do cuatrimestre de 1994. El 75,93 por ciento (41 casos) fueron producto de parto distócico, de los cuales 31 par de parto Instrumental; el 22,22 por ciento producto de partos eutócicos y sólo un caso fue producto de cesárea. El peso promedio al nacer fue de 4,474 gr. El miembro afectado más frecuente por parálisis braquial perinatal fue del superior derecho en un 70,37 por ciento. En la gran mayoría de los pacientes (59,67 por ciento), en los que se empleó la técnica, se obtuvieron muy buenos resultados funcionales tanto en la abducción como en la rotación externa

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: the treatment of choice for cholelithiasis in infancy and childhood

Twelve consecutive laparoscopic cholecystectomies [LC] were performed between January 1994 and October 1996 at King Khalid University Hospital. In all patients the indication for cholecystectomy was symptomatic gallstones. Among the 12 children, six had sickle cell disease. The operating time ranged between 65 and 135 minutes [mean=89 +/- 21.06]. There was no major morbidity or mortality. The average duration of postoperative parenteral analgesia [pethidine hydrochloride] required was 0.47 +/- 0.19 day [ranged between 0.3 and one day]. The average postoperative stay was 1.67 +/- 0.44 days [ranged between 1 and 2.5 days]. In conclusion, LC is safe, effective and the preferred approach for cholelithiasis in children, with the advantages of short postoperative analgesia requirement, shorter hospitalization, and therefore, an early return to normal daily activities