Management of Brachial Plexus Birth Injuries at British Columbia Children's Hospital.

A multidisciplinary team at BC Children's Hospital provides brachial plexus birth injury management for our provincial catchment area. Although compared with many centers we service a relatively small clinic population, we have the benefit of universal health care, province-wide reach, and accessible research infrastructure. In 2008, we created the Sup-ER protocol, which includes an orthosis that passively positions the neonatal shoulder into more idealized glenohumeral contact during early growth. We have since shown that our Sup-ER patients have better shoulder outcomes, require less brachial plexus surgery, and need fewer shoulder tendon transfers than those patients treated in our clinic prior to 2008. We have also found that the rate and degree of elbow flexion contractures are reduced compared with results reported in the literature.

How Institution of the Sup-ER Protocol in a Clinic Changed Procedure Patterns in Upper Brachial Plexus (Erb's Type) Birth Injuries.

BACKGROUND: For children with upper brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI; C5, C6, ±C7 roots), most clinics first recommend nonsurgical treatment followed by primary and/or secondary surgical interventions in selected patients. Since 2008, we have used an infant shoulder repositioning protocol (supination-external rotation [Sup-ER]) designed to prevent shoulder internal rotation contracture and its potential effects on the shoulder joint. This study characterizes our clinic's current choice, number, and timing of primary and secondary procedural interventions (including Botox) and compares Sup-ER protocol patients with those of our historical controls. METHODS: The records of all patients with upper BPBI who underwent procedures from 2001 to 2018 were retrospectively reviewed and grouped into a historical (2001-2007, n = 20) and recent (2008-2018, n = 23) cohort. Patient demographics, procedure types and timing, and functional outcomes were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: Since the 2008 institution of the Sup-ER protocol, fewer brachial plexus exploration and grafting (BPEG) surgeries were performed and none in later infancy, where nerve transfers were preferred. There were more and earlier Botox injections. There were fewer tendon transfers, and the preoperative indications were from a higher level of function. CONCLUSIONS: We now see fewer indications for BPEG surgeries overall. After the 3-month-age group, more direct nerve transfers are indicated instead of the BPEG surgery if nerve surgery is required at all. Shoulder tendon transfer rates have decreased. Humeral osteotomies are not seen in our recent group. Glenoid osteotomies within tendon transfers are rare in both groups.

Can the Sup-ER Protocol Decrease the Prevalence and Severity of Elbow Flexion Deformity in Brachial Plexus Birth Injuries?

BACKGROUND: Brachial plexus birth injuries (BPBIs) can often result in functional and cosmetic deficits including, according to a recent scoping review, elbow flexion contractures in up to 48%. A treatment algorithm that includes a custom long-arm orthosis to optimize early glenohumeral joint positioning (Sup-ER protocol) has been shown to improve shoulder range of motion. Although the protocol was not intentionally designed to affect the elbow, this study investigates the prevalence and severity of elbow flexion contractures in children treated with that protocol. METHODS: This prospective cross-sectional cohort study examined 16 children aged 4 and older with BPBI severe enough to be treated with the Sup-ER protocol. Passive and active elbow flexion and extension range of motion (ROM) were assessed in both arms. Elbow flexion contractures were defined as > 5o from neutral. RESULTS: Within the cohort of 16 patients (mean age: 7.0 years, range: 4.5-11.6 years), the mean maximal passive elbow extension was -6.2° in the affected arm and + 5.1° (hyperextension) in the unaffected arm. Zero patients had a severe elbow flexion contracture (>30o) and only 6/16 met the lowest threshold definition of elbow flexion contracture (>5o), with a mean onset at 22 months of age. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests an unintended decreased prevalence and severity of elbow flexion contractures in children with more severe BPBI treated with the Sup-ER protocol, relative to published values.

Something Stinks! Finding Ways to Manage Noxious Odours in the Operating Room and Other Clinical Settings A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objectives: The hospital can be saturated with noxious smells. Anecdotally, medical staff apply products to surgical masks to lessen the impact of these smells. This study aimed to determine the odour-masking ability of 4 inexpensive and convenient products. Methods: A randomized, single-blinded crossover study was conducted in Vancouver, Canada. Participants, 19 to 30 years old, were invited to participate. Participants with active allergies, upper respiratory tract infection, alteration to sense of smell, or failure of olfactory screen were excluded from the study. An experimental odour was used in lieu of a noxious surgical odour. After smelling the experimental odour without barriers, participants were re-exposed to the odour using 5 surgical masks in randomized order. Each mask was lined with a test product (cherry lip balm, tincture of benzoin, Mastisol, mint toothpaste, and control [plain mask]). Participants rated the effectiveness of products at masking the experimental odour from 0 to 100 (0 = completely ineffective, 100 = completely effective). Participants also rated the pleasantness of the products, recorded if the products made them feel unwell, and identified their preferred product overall. Results: Eighty participants were included in the study (33 male, 47 female), averaging 24.2 years of age. Mean odour-masking effectiveness for cherry lip balm was 66.5 (±24.6), tincture of benzoin: 62.6 (±25.0), Mastisol: 61.3 (±23.9), mint toothpaste: 57.5 (±27.4), and control: 21.9 (±21.8). All products performed better than the control (P < .001), but there was no significant difference in performance between products. Cherry lip balm was the most preferred odour-masking product (29 participants), followed by mint toothpaste (22), Mastisol (14), tincture of benzoin (10), and control (5). Conclusions: All tested products demonstrated equivalent odour-masking abilities. If health care professionals choose to use an odour-masking product, they should consider their own olfactory preferences.

Objectifs: L'hôpital peut être saturé d'odeurs nauséabondes. On rapporte que le personnel médical applique des produits sur leurs masques chirurgicaux pour atténuer l'impact de ces odeurs. Cette étude visait à déterminer l'efficacité de quatre produits masqueurs d'odeurs, et ce de façon pratique et peu couteuse. Méthodes: Une étude croisée a simple insu et a répartition aléatoire a été menée à Vancouver, Canada. Des participants âgés de 19 à 30 ans, ont été invités à participer. Les participants souffrant d'allergies actives, d'une infection des voies respiratoires supérieures, d'une altération olfactive, ou aillant échoué la procédure de sélection ont été exclus de l'étude. Une odeur expérimentale a été utilisée au lieu d'une odeur nauséabonde chirurgicale. Après avoir senti l'odeur expérimentale, les participants ont été réexposés à la même odeur à cinq reprises. A chaque reprise, le participant était muni d'un de 5 masques tapissé d'un agent masquant d'odeur (baume à lèvres aux cerises, teinture de benzoïne, mastisol, dentifrice à la menthe, et contrôle [masque standard]). L'ordre des masques a été déterminé de façon aléatoire. Les participants ont noté sur une échelle de 0 à 100 l'efficacité des produits à masquer l'odeur (0: complètement inefficace, 100: complètement efficace). Les participants ont également évalué la qualité plaisante des agents, si ceux-ci les rendaient nauséeux, et ont ensuite identifié leur produit préféré parmi l'ensemble. Résultats: Quatre-vingts participants ont été inclus dans l'étude (33 hommes, 47 femmes), âgés en moyenne de 24,2 ans. L'efficacité des produits à masquer l'odeur expérimentale étaient d'une moyenne de 66,5 (+24,6) pour le baume à lèvres aux cerises ; 62,6 (+25,0) pour la teinture de benzoine ; 61,3 (+23,9) le mastisol ; 57,5 (+27,4) pour le dentifrice à la menthe, et 21,9 (+21,8) le contrôle. Tous les agents testés ont reçu une note supérieure au contrôle (P < .001). Par-contre, il n'y avait pas de différence significative entre les agents. Le baume à lèvres aux cerises était le produit préféré (29 participants), suivi du dentifrice à la menthe (22), du mastisol (14), de la teinture de benzoine (10), et finalement du contrôle (5). Conclusions: Tous les produits testés ont démontré une efficacité similaire, celle-ci supérieure comparée au contrôle. Si les professionnels de la santé souhaitent d'utiliser un produit qui masque les odeurs, ils devraient tenir compte de leurs propres préférences.

Shoulder Rotation Function Following the Sup-ER Protocol in Children with Brachial Plexus Injuries.

Background: Our group previously developed an upper extremity repositioning (Sup-ER) protocol for brachial plexus birth injuries (BPBIs) that may improve supination and external rotation (ER) at 2 years of age. Questions were raised about the potential for the protocol to cause internal rotation (IR) deficits. The goal of this study was to explore the longer-term outcomes of the Sup-ER protocol and investigate IR/ER function. Methods: This prospective cross-sectional cohort study examined 16 children older than 4 years of age with significant enough BPBI to be treated with the Sup-ER protocol. Total shoulder and elbow function were assessed, including passive and active ranges of motion and strength of IR and ER. Results: Range of motion (ROM) for most active movements was decreased in the affected compared to unaffected arm. Notably, IR passive ROM was similar in the affected (78.7°) and unaffected arm (82.8°). External rotation strength of the affected arm was weaker (42.8 N) compared to the unaffected arm (57.9 N). IR strength had a greater deficit in the affected (43.2 N) arm compared to the unaffected arm (72.2 N), but both ER and IR showed less deficit than described in the literature. Conclusions: Despite differences in ranges of motion between the affected and unaffected arms, ROMs for the affected arm were comparable to the functional limits as reported in the literature. The Sup-ER protocol shows potential to optimize long-term shoulder rotation function in children with BPBI without compromising IR.

Correction of neonatal auricular deformities with DuoDERM: A simple technique.

Ear moulding in neonates has been shown to successfully correct congenital auricular anomalies. There are several available moulding techniques. However, commercially available moulding devices (e.g., EarWell and Ear Buddy) can be costly, and their alternatives have limited customizability. We present a technique using cost-effective and customizable materials for moulding common anomalies (Stahl's ear, constricted ear, and prominent ear). DuoDERM Extra-thin, Steri-strips, and 3M Kind Removal Silicone tape are used to splint the ear in a preferred position. The DuoDERM is rolled into a putty, placed in the ear, and secured with tapes. This treatment is initiated in the clinic, with weekly splint changes carried out at home by caregivers, and intermittent follow-up appointments. DuoDERM moulding is a safe, inexpensive, highly customizable, and simple way to correct auricular deformities. Primary physicians/paediatricians should embed moulding into their practice, starting treatment as early as possible in the neonatal period.

Can Tissue Expansion Reconstruction in the Trunk of Children Increase the Risk of Scoliosis?

INTRODUCTION: We hypothesize that treatment of significant truncal lesions with truncal tissue expanders and subsequent flap surgery in pediatric patients may increase the risk of scoliosis. This study aims to investigate any relationship between tissue expansion (TE) and scoliosis and to compare the prevalence of scoliosis in our tissue expander population to the general population. METHODS: Health records of patients who underwent truncal TE at BC Children's Hospital between 1997 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. The cross-sectional component of the study consisted of radiological imaging to establish the presence or absence of scoliosis. RESULTS: We identified 28 patients who underwent truncal TE over the study period. Ten had a scoliosis X-ray on their chart or as a part of the study. Three (10.7%) patients were identified as having developed scoliosis after TE. CONCLUSIONS: We recommend that pediatric TE patients be made aware of the potential complication of scoliosis and be followed closely in the years during and after their treatment, in order to allow for preventative measures, early diagnosis and early management (if required).

INTRODUCTION: Les chercheurs postulent que le traitement d'importantes lésions du tronc par des expandeurs tissulaires suivi d'une opération par lambeau chez les patients pédiatriques peut accroître le risque de scoliose. La présente étude vise à explorer la relation entre l'expansion tissulaire (ET) et la scoliose et à comparer la prévalence de scoliose entre la population ayant subi une expansion tissulaire et la population générale. MÉTHODOLOGIE: Les chercheurs ont procédé à l'analyse prospective du dossier de santé des patients qui ont subi une ET du tronc au BC Children's Hospital entre 1997 et 2017. L'élément transversal de l'étude était constitué d'une imagerie radiologique pour établir la présence ou l'absence de scoliose. RÉSULTATS: Les chercheurs ont recensé 28 patients qui ont subi une ET du tronc pendant la période de l'étude. Dix avaient une radiographie de scoliose au dossier ou en cours d'étude. Trois (10,7 %) avaient eu une scoliose après l'ET. CONCLUSIONS: Les chercheurs recommandent d'informer les patients pédiatriques qui subissent une ET du tronc qu'ils courent un risque de complication de scoliose et de les suivre de près dans les années où se déroulent le traitement et qui le suivent, afin de favoriser des mesures préventives, des diagnostics précoces et une prise en charge rapide, s'il y a lieu.

A 3-Year Review of an Outpatient Burn Sedation Program in a Tertiary Burn Care Centre: Is It Safe and Does It Work?

INTRODUCTION: The burn treatment room at our tertiary-care centre is run by a multidisciplinary team, providing care to primarily burn patients who require moderate to deep sedation to undergo dressing changes in a monitored setting outside the operating room. There is little literature on the safety, efficacy, and logistics of treating outpatient pediatric burn patients in this manner. This study reviews the safety of deep sedation in the burn treatment room. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of patients with burns treated in the burn treatment room from 2013 to 2015 was conducted. Patient demographics, diagnosis, procedure details, sedation, and adverse events were recorded. Data were analyzed descriptively. RESULTS: Sevety-four patients with burns had a total of 308 visits in the burn treatment room for burn bath and/or dressing changes. Scald burns were the most common mechanism of injury (n = 56). Most burns were superficial and mid-dermal (54%), initially estimated at 5% to 10% TBSA (50%). Of the 308 visits, 304 required sedation. Adverse events were recorded in 11 (3.6%) of 304 sedated procedures. None of these events were critical: 7 patients required intravenous conversion due to inadequate oral sedation, 2 experienced brief apnea episodes but recovered spontaneously, and 2 had delayed discharge of more than 2 hours due to residual sedation. CONCLUSION: The burn treatment room is a safe and effective setting for treating pediatric burn patients, bypassing what might historically require operating suite inpatient management.

INTRODUCTION: La salle de traitement des brûlures du centre de soins tertiaires des chercheurs est dirigée par une équipe multidisciplinaire qui soigne surtout des patients brûlés ayant besoin d'une sédation modérée à profonde pour faire changer leurs pansements dans un milieu surveillé hors du bloc opératoire. Peu de publications portent sur l'innocuité, l'efficacité et la logistique de ce type de traitement ambulatoire pour les patients brûlés d'âge pédiatrique. La présente étude analyse l'innocuité de la sédation profonde à la salle de traitement des brûlures. MÉTHODOLOGIE: Les chercheurs ont procédé à une analyse rétrospective des dossiers de patients brûlés traités à la salle de traitement des brûlures entre 2013 et 2015. Ils ont noté les caractéristiques démographiques, le diagnostic, le détail des interventions, la sédation et les événements indésirables des patients et fait une analyse descriptive des données. RÉSULTATS: Soixante-quatorze patients brûlés sont allés un total de 308 fois à la salle de traitement des brûlures pour faire laver leurs brûlures ou changer leurs pansements. Les brûlures par liquide chaud étaient les plus courantes (n = 56). La plupart étaient superficielles et touchaient le derme moyen (54 %), pour une estimation initiale de 5 % à 10 % de la surface corporelle (50 %). Des 308 visites, 304 ont fait l'objet d'une sédation. Onze événements indésirables (3,6 %), dont aucun n'était critique, ont découlé des 304 interventions sous sédation. En effet, neuf patients ont dû passer à une sédation intraveineuse parce que la sédation orale était inadéquate, deux ont présenté de brefs épisodes d'apnée, mais se sont rétablis spontanément, et le congé de deux cas a dû être retardé de plus de deux heures à ause d'une sédation résiduelle. CONCLUSION: La salle de traitement des brûlures est un lieu sécuritaire et efficace pour traiter les patients brûlés d'âge pédiatrique et permet d'éviter ce qui nécessitait auparavant un passage au bloc opératoire et une hospitalisation.

Tissue expansion in pediatric patients: a 10-year review.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Tissue expansion complication rates up to 40% have been reported in the pediatric population. This study aims to review one Canadian pediatric plastic surgeon's experience with tissue expansion by examining tissue expander and flap complication rates, and discussing important aspects of the tissue expansion experience. METHODS: This is a retrospective chart review of the medical records of all tissue expansion patients treated by the senior author during a ten-year period. Data were collected on patient demographics, tissue expansion details, complications, and outcomes, and were analyzed descriptively. The relationship between tissue expander complications and flap complications was analyzed with odds ratio. RESULTS: Ninety-three expanders were placed in 24 patients during 49 sessions. Complications occurred in 19 expanders (10 patients; 16 sessions), resulting in premature removal of nine. Only one session was unsuccessful; the expander became exposed and was removed after 1 month. The odds of having a flap complication were three times greater with preceding tissue expander complication (not statistically significant). CONCLUSIONS: Our study identifies a 20% expander complication rate in the pediatric population. Patients with tissue expander complications subsequently experienced more flap complications than those without tissue expander complications. Complications do not preclude successful reconstruction. TYPE OF STUDY: Prognostic. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II.

Is it safe to re-access sodium bicarbonate bottles for use in minor surgery?

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Sodium bicarbonate is added to lidocaine to reduce injection pain. In Canada, it is available in vials exceeding the injection volume 100-fold. These are single-use vials that should be disposed of after one access. Some surgeons re-use vials to reduce waste, potentially causing contamination. This study aims to review the safety of sodium bicarbonate and assess alternatives to current practice. METHODS: Strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Burkholderia cepacia were used to assess bacterial growth in vials of sodium bicarbonate. Each pathogen was inoculated into a vial for 14 days at room temperature. At several time points, 1 mL of solution was removed and diluted. One hundred microliters were transferred to blood agar plates and incubated at 35 °C. Colony counts were calculated, averaged and plotted onto a logarithmic graph. RESULTS: Colony counts of all strains fell below observational threshold after 7 days in sodium bicarbonate. CONCLUSIONS: Although all strains were reduced, bacteria can survive in sodium bicarbonate for several days, during which transmission may occur. Sodium bicarbonate vials should be treated as single-dose, as indicated by the manufacturers. To reduce waste, hospital pharmacies can repackage sodium bicarbonate into smaller vials or pre-alkalize lidocaine with sodium bicarbonate.

Airway Management in Pierre Robin Sequence: The Vancouver Classification.

BACKGROUND: Pierre Robin sequence (PRS) is a triad of micrognathia, glossoptosis, and respiratory distress. There is no standard clinical classification used in the management of neonatal airway in patients with PRS. The goal of our study was to review the presentation and management of patients with PRS and formulate a clinical grading system and treatment algorithm. METHODS: A 10-year retrospective review of all neonates diagnosed with PRS was performed after obtaining institutional ethics approval. Patients were identified using our cleft lip and palate program database. Inclusion criteria were 2 of the following 3 clinical features-glossoptosis, retrognathia, or airway obstruction. We collected demographic data, clinical information (coexisting airway morbidity, maxillary-mandibular discrepancy, type of intervention used, complications, and outcomes (feeding, length of stay, and airway status) during the first year of life. RESULTS: Sixty-three patients met our inclusion criteria. Of these, 55 (87%) had cleft palate and 17 (27%) were syndromic. Forty-eight (76%) patients were managed by prone positioning. Of the 15 surgically managed patients, the initial procedure was floor of mouth release in 7, mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) in 4, and tongue-lip adhesion in 4. Five patients with coexisting airway morbidity needed a second surgery; 2 had MDO and 3 tracheostomies (one patient was later decannulated). Seven (47%) of the surgically managed patients required a gastrostomy tube. CONCLUSION: At present, there is no consensus on neonatal airway management in infants with PRS. From our review of 63 patients with PRS, we hereby propose a simple 4-point classification system and treatment algorithm, based on clinical features.

HISTORIQUE: Le syndrome de Pierre-Robin (SPR) désigne une triade de micrognathie, de glossoptose et de détresse respiratoire. Aucune classification clinique standard n'est utilisée pour assurer l'ouverture des voies respiratoires chez les nouveau-nés présentant un SPR. La présente étude visait à examiner la présentation et la prise en charge des patients ayant un SPR ainsi qu'à formuler un système de classement clinique et un algorithme de traitement. MÉTHODOLOGIE: Après avoir obtenu l'approbation du comité d'éthique de leur établissement, les chercheurs ont procédé à une analyse rétrospective sur dix ans de tous les nouveau-nés ayant reçu un diagnostic de SPR. Ils ont recensé les patients dans leur base de données de fentes labiales et palatines. Deux des trois caractéristiques cliniques suivantes constituaient les critères d'inclusion : glossoptose, rétrognatie ou obstruction des voies respiratoires. Les chercheurs ont recueilli les données démographiques, l'information clinique (morbidité coexistante des voies respiratoires, malocclusion maxillo-mandibulaire, type d'intervention utilisé, complications et résultats cliniques [alimentation, durée du séjour hospitalier et état des voies respiratoires]) jusqu'à l'âge d'un an. RÉSULTATS: Soixante-trois patients respectaient les critères d'inclusion. De ce nombre, 55 (87 %) avaient une fente palatine et 17 (27 %), un SPR. Quarante-huit patients (76 %) ont été traités par positionnement en décubitus ventral. Des 15 patients opérés, sept ont subi une libération du plancher buccal, quatre, une ostéogenèse par distraction de la mandibule (ODM) et quatre, une adhésion de la langue et de la lèvre. Cinq patients ayant une morbidité concomitante des voies respiratoires ont dû être opérés une deuxième fois. Deux avaient une ODM et trois, une trachéostomie (un a été décannulé par la suite). Sept patients opérés (47 %) ont eu besoin d'une sonde de gastrostomie. CONCLUSION: À l'heure actuelle, il n'y a pas de consensus sur la prise en charge des voies respiratoires chez les nourrissons ayant un SPR. D'après l'analyse de 63 patients ayant ce syndrome, les auteurs proposent un système de classification simple en quatre points et un algorithme de traitement reposant sur les caractéristiques cliniques.

Pediatric Melanoma: A 35-year Population-based Review.

BACKGROUND: Melanoma is a rare neoplasm in the pediatric population. Recent publications suggest a possible increase in incidence over the past few decades. The purpose of this study was to analyze trends in pediatric patients diagnosed with malignant melanoma in British Columbia (BC) in the past 35 years. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed. All patients in BC diagnosed with melanoma before 18 years of age from 1979 to 2014 were included. Patient demographics, melanoma description, treatment details, and survival data were collected. RESULTS: Seventy-eight subjects were identified for the study. Patients were equally distributed by sex. Sixty-one (78%) of the subjects were diagnosed in the postpubertal age (≥12 years old). The most common sites of occurrence were the extremities (n = 33) and the trunk (n = 27), with the location on the trunk showing the highest mortality rate (22%). All patients were surgically treated and some had additional chemotherapy (12) and/or radiotherapy (12). Fatal outcome was recorded in 12 of the 78 subjects, 10 of whom had postpubertal diagnosis. The average time from date of diagnosis to date of death was 9.3 years. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of melanoma in the pediatric population remains exceedingly rare: less than 2.5 per million children younger than 18 years. The diagnosis is rarely made before puberty; the incidence is equal in males and females and has not changed over a 35-year time period in BC. Our study shows 85% survival with the majority of patients having had surgical excision only.

Minor surgery procedures: A retrospective review and prospective survey in a pediatric population.

OBJECTIVE: The present study evaluated minor surgery procedures undertaken by a single plastic surgeon at BC Children's Hospital (Vancouver, British Columbia) for patient and physician satisfaction, parent impressions, psychological concerns and complications. METHODS: Data were collected from a retrospective chart review and a prospective patient survey. Eligible subjects for the retrospective study included all pediatric patients undergoing minor surgery between May 2011 and April 2013. Parameters of interest included patient demographics, minor surgery specifics, complications and outcomes. Eligible subjects for the prospective patient survey included consecutive patients undergoing minor surgery between June 2013 and August 2013, as well as their parents. RESULTS: A total of 219 procedures were included in the retrospective review. The mean age of subjects was 13.1 years (range two weeks to 18 years). The median length of follow-up was 46 days (range four to 606 days). There were no major complications; however, 45 minor complications in 36 patients were found. Complications included crusting (4.6%), delayed wound healing (3.2%), hypersensitivity (2.3%), scar hypertrophy (1.8%), infection (0.9%) and other (7.8%). Outcomes were categorized as one of four outcomes: both satisfied (89.9%); patient satisfied but physician unsatisfied (0.8%); patient unsatisfied and physician satisfied (3.1%); and both unsatisfied (6.2%). In the prospective study, 32 subjects consented to participate in the survey. Of these subjects, 10 children and 12 parents responded to the questionnaires. Eighty-three percent of respondents indicated that their goals were accomplished by their procedure and that they would be willing to undergo minor surgery again. CONCLUSION: Minor surgery is possible and practical in pediatric plastic surgery clinics, with few complications and high patient and surgeon satisfaction.

OBJECTIF: La présente étude visait à évaluer la satisfaction des patients et des médecins, les impressions des parents, les inquiétudes psychologiques et les complications après des interventions chirurgicales mineures, toutes effectuées par le même praticien au BC Children's Hospital de Vancouver. MÉTHODOLOGIE: Les chercheurs ont fait l'analyse rétrospective des dossiers et effectué un sondage prospectif auprès des patients pour colliger les données. Tous les patients d'âge pédiatrique qui avaient subi une chirurgie mineure entre mai 2011 et avril 2013 étaient admissibles à l'étude rétrospective. Les paramètres d'intérêt incluaient la démographie des patients, les particularités des chirurgies mineures, les complications et les résultats cliniques. Les patients consécutifs qui avaient subi une chirurgie mineure entre juin 2013 et août 2013, de même que leurs parents, étaient admissibles au sondage prospectif. RÉSULTATS: Au total, 219 interventions ont fait partie de l'analyse rétrospective. Les sujets avaient un âge moyen de 13,1 ans (plage de deux semaines à 18 ans) et ont profité d'un suivi médian de 46 jours (plage de quatre à 606 jours). Ils n'ont pas souffert de complications majeures, mais les chercheurs ont constaté 45 complications mineures chez 36 patients, soit la formation de croûte (4,6 %), le retard de cicatrisation de la plaie (3,2 %), l'hypersensibilité (2,3 %), l'hypertrophie cicatricielle (1,8 %), l'infection (0,9 %) et d'autres problèmes (7,8 %). Les résultats cliniques ont été divisés en quatre possibilités : médecin et patient satisfaits (89,9 %); patient satisfait, mais médecin insatisfait (0,8 %); patient insatisfait et médecin satisfait (3,1 %); et médecin et patient insatisfaits (6,2 %). Dans l'étude prospective, 32 sujets ont consenti à participer eu sondage. De ce nombre, dix enfants et 12 parents ont répondu aux questionnaires, et 83 % des répondants ont indiqué que l'intervention avait atteint le but visé et qu'ils seraient prêts à subir une nouvelle chirurgie mineure. CONCLUSION: Il est possible et faisable d'effectuer des chirurgies mineures dans les cliniques de chirurgie plastique pédiatrique. Elles entraînent peu de complications, et les patients et les chirurgiens en sont fort satisfaits.

Parents' experiences of splinting programs for babies with congenital limb anomalies.

PURPOSE: To explore parent experiences with participation in splinting programs for their child with a congenital limb anomaly in the child's first year of life. While parent participation is recognized as integral to successful outcomes of splinting programs for these children, little is known about factors influencing their participation. METHODS: Through purposive sampling, 10 families recruited from outpatient clinics at a pediatric tertiary care facility participated in semi-structured interviews in this qualitative study utilizing interpretive description methodology. Constant comparative and concurrent data collection and analysis were employed. RESULTS: Themes identified: (1) An experience of adjustment; (2) The value of timely and comprehensive information; (3) Appreciation of support networks; and (4) Characteristics unique to splinting programs. Practical suggestions for program enhancements are outlined. CONCLUSIONS: Addressing parents' information, support, and individual needs are keys to promoting active parent participation in their child's splinting program, contributing to positive outcomes for their child.

Coordination and balance in children with birth-related brachial plexus injury: a preliminary study.

PURPOSE: Most children with severe birth-related brachial plexus injury (BRBPI) have some functional impairment, but information on the impact of BRBPI on coordination and balance is limited. The study's purpose was to determine whether children with BRBPI exhibit deficits in body coordination and balance. METHOD: A prospective cohort study involving 39 children with BRBPI aged 5-15 years was conducted. Range of motion, strength, active movement, and balance and coordination motor skills were assessed using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, Second Edition (BOT-2), and the Movement Assessment Battery for Children-Second Edition (MABC-2). A self-report measure of physical disability, the Activities Scale for Kids-Performance Version (ASKp), was also administered. RESULTS: Participants scored a mean of 44.72 on the BOT-2 Body Coordination composite subtest; scores can range from 20 to 80. Eleven participants (28.2%) scored below average on this test. Participants scored a mean of 7.3 on the Balance subtest of the MABC-2; scores can range from 1 to 19. Twenty-six participants (66.7%) scored below average on this test. Of 38 participants, 25 (65.8%) had an ASKp score indicating some level of disability (<95/100); we found a statistically significant difference in balance (p=0.007) between these 25 participants and those without disability (ASKp score 95-100). CONCLUSIONS: The majority of our study population scored in the categories of at risk or significant difficulty for balance on the MABC-2. Balance rehabilitation may be a valuable treatment adjunct for children with BRBPI.

Objet : La plupart des enfants qui ont une grave lésion du plexus brachial reliée à la naissance (LPBRN) ont une déficience fonctionnelle, mais l'information au sujet de l'effet de la LPBRN sur la coordination et l'équilibre est toutefois limitée. L'étude visait à déterminer si les enfants qui ont une LPBRN montrent des déficiences de la coordination et de l'équilibre. Méthode : On a procédé à une étude de cohorte prospective portant sur 39 enfants ayant subi une LPBRN âgés de 5 à 15 ans. On a évalué l'amplitude du mouvement, la force, le mouvement actif, l'équilibre et la coordination de la motricité au moyen du test de Bruininks­Oseretsky de la maîtrise de la motricité (BOT-2) et du test d'évaluation du mouvement chez les enfants (MABC-2). On a aussi administré une mesure autodéclarée de l'incapacité physique, la version de l'échelle des activités pour la performance des enfants (ASKp). Résultats : Les participants ont obtenu une moyenne de 44,72 comme score composite de la coordination du corps BOT-2, qui peut varier de 20 à 80. Onze participants (28,2%) ont obtenu un résultat inférieur à la moyenne. Les participants ont obtenu un résultat moyen de 7,3 au sous-test de l'équilibre du test MABC-2, résultat qui peut varier de 1 à 19; 26 participants (66,7%) ont obtenu un résultat inférieur à la moyenne. Sur 39 participants, 25 (65,8%) ont obtenu un résultat ASKp indiquant une certaine incapacité (<95/100); il y avait une différence statistiquement significative au niveau de l'équilibre (p=0,007) entre ces 25 participants et ceux qui n'avaient pas d'incapacité (résultat ASKp de 95 à 100). Conclusions : La majorité des membres de la population à l'étude ont obtenu un résultat dans les catégories « à risque ¼ ou « à difficultés importantes ¼ au niveau de l'équilibre indiqué par le test MABC-2. Le rétablissement de l'équilibre peut constituer un traitement d'appoint valable pour les enfants qui ont une LPBRN.

Microtia Reconstruction and Postsurgical Grisel's Syndrome: A Rare Cause of Torticollis in a Child.

SUMMARY: Grisel's syndrome is an unusual but important cause of torticollis which may be encountered in a pediatric plastic surgery practice, where craniofacial and oropharyngeal surgeries are commonly performed. Grisel's syndrome is characterized by painful torticollis and limited cervical rotation, and the diagnosis is confirmed via radiologic imaging. Initial management of Grisel's syndrome is with anti-inflammatories and in some cases antibiotics. In unresolving or recurrent cases, more invasive treatments, such as cervical collar, halo, or surgical arthrodesis, may be considered.

Inpatient silver sulphadiazine versus outpatient nanocrystalline silver models of care for pediatric scald burns: A value analysis.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Scalds represent the most frequent pediatric burn injury. Inpatient nonsurgical wound management of small or medium-size burns (<20% total body surface area) represents a significant proportion of the cost of care, with nanocrystalline silver (NCS) and silver sulphadiazine (SSD) among the most commonly used dressings. Although several articles have described healing outcomes using these dressings, there are few concurrent economic analyses. To analyze overall health care value (outcomes/cost) in burns not requiring surgery, the authors compared management of scald burns with NCS versus SSD from both a quality perspective and using bottom-up microcosting to determine which dressing option optimizes health care value. METHODS: A value analysis was performed. Published studies investigating NCS and/or SSD in the treatment of pediatric burns over the past 25 years were analyzed. Healing time, hospital duration and frequency of dressings were chosen as quality metrics. A bottom-up microcosting analysis was performed to estimate costs associated with the two dressing options. RESULTS: Over the 25-year period, 356 studies investigated the use of SSD in burns, while 55 studies evaluated the use of NCS. Mean age and burn size were equivalent. Mean time to healing was 14.9 days for NCS and 17.2 days for SSD. The mean duration of hospital stay was 14.9 days for SSD and 5.9 days for NCS. Dressings were performed twice per week for NCS, and once or twice per day for SSD. The mean total cost per patient to the health care system was estimated to be $61,140 for SSD and $17,220 for NCS. CONCLUSION: Published outcomes of healing time are equivalent or slightly better using NCS over SSD for pediatric scalds. The financial model illustrated a potential significant cost saving with NCS, primarily as a result of an outpatient model of care. Overall health care value is optimized using NCS for pediatric scalds.

HISTORIQUE ET OBJECTIF: L'ébouillantage est le principal type de brûlure en pédiatrie. La prise en charge non chirurgicale des plaies de petite à moyenne dimension (moins de 20 % de la surface corporelle totale) chez les patients hospitalisés représente une importante proportion du coût des soins, et parmi les pansements les plus utilisés, soulignons ceux recouverts d'argent nanocristallin (ANC) ou de sulfadiazine d'argent (SDA). Même si plusieurs articles ont porté sur les résultats de la cicatrisation à l'aide de ces pansements, peu d'analyses économiques simultanées ont été organisées. Pour analyser la valeur globale des soins (résultats et coûts) après des brûlures ne suscitant pas d'opération, les auteurs ont comparé la prise en charge des brûlures par ébouillantage à l'aide d'ANC et de SDA. Ils ont opté pour une perspective de qualité et un calcul des coûts sur une base individuelle pour déterminer le type de pansement qui optimise la valeur des soins. MÉTHODOLOGIE: Les chercheurs ont effectué une analyse de valeur. Ils ont analysé les études publiées sur l'utilisation de l'ANC ou de la SDA pour traiter les brûlures pédiatriques depuis 25 ans. Le délai de cicatrisation, la durée d'hospitalisation et la fréquence des changements de pansements ont été retenus comme mesures de qualité. Ils ont effectué une analyse du calcul des coûts sur une base individuelle pour évaluer les coûts associés aux deux types de pansement. RÉSULTATS: Pendant la période de 25 ans, 356 études ont porté sur l'utilisation de la SDA pour soigner les brûlures, tandis que 55 visaient à évaluer l'utilisation d'ANC. L'âge moyen et la dimension des brûlures étaient équivalents. Le délai moyen jusqu'à la cicatrisation était de 14,9 jours à l'aide de l'ANC et de 17,2 jour à l'aide de la SDA. La durée moyenne d'hospitalisation s'élevait à 14,9 jours avec la SDA et de 5,9 jours avec l'ANC. Les pansements étaient changés deux fois par semaine pour l'ANC, et une ou deux fois par jour pour la SDA. Le coût moyen total par patient pour le système de santé était évalué à 61 140 $ pour la SDA et à 17 220 $ pour l'ANC. CONCLUSION: Les résultats publiés sur le délai de cicatrisation sont équivalents ou légèrement supérieurs à l'aide de l'ANC que de la SDA pour soigner des brûlures par ébouillantage en pédiatrie. Le modèle financier indique une possibilité d'économie marquée grâce à l'ANC, surtout au moyen d'un modèle de soins en milieu ambulatoire. La valeur globale des soins des brûlures par ébouillantage en pédiatrie est optimisée grâce à l'ANC.

Sup-ER orthosis: an innovative treatment for infants with birth related brachial plexus injury.

Impairments in active and passive range of upper extremity supination and shoulder external rotation are common sequelae for children with delayed recovery from birth related brachial plexus injury. Orthotic intervention may complement traditional treatment strategies commonly employed in the newborn period. These authors describe their custom fabricated orthosis designed to balance shoulder growth and muscular function, and improve prognosis of long term functional outcomes for children with birth related brachial plexus injury. - Victoria Priganc, PhD, OTR, CHT, CLT, Practice Forum Editor.

An early shoulder repositioning program in birth-related brachial plexus injury: a pilot study of the Sup-ER protocol.

BACKGROUND: Birth-related brachial plexus injury (BRBPI) occurs in 1.2/1,000 births in British Columbia. Even in children with "good" recovery, external rotation (ER) and supination (Sup) are often weaker, and permanent skeletal imbalance ensues. A preventive early infant shoulder passive repositioning program was created using primarily a novel custom splint holding the affected arm in full ER and Sup: the Sup-ER splint. The details of the splint and the shoulder repositioning program evolved with experience over several years. This study reviews the first 4 years. METHODS: A retrospective review of BCCH patients managed with the Sup-ER protocol from 2008 to 2011 compared their recovery scores to matched historical controls selected from our database by two independent reviewers. RESULTS: The protocol was initiated in 18 children during the study period. Six were excluded due to the following: insufficient data points, non-compliance, late splint initiation, and loss to follow-up. Of the 12 matches, the Sup-ER group final score at 2 years was better than controls by 1.18 active movement scale (AMS) points (p = 0.036) in Sup and 0.96 AMS points in ER (but not statistically significant (p = 0.13)). Unexpectedly, but importantly, during the study period, zero subjects were assessed to have the active functional criteria to indicate brachial plexus reconstruction, where previously we operated on 13 %. CONCLUSIONS: Early application of passive shoulder repositioning into Sup and ER may improve outcomes in function of the arm in infants with BRBPI. A North American multi-site randomized control trial has been approved and has started recruitment.

Additional post-natal diagnoses following antenatal diagnosis of isolated cleft lip +/− palate.

INTRODUCTION: Cleft lip with or without palate (CLP) can be diagnosed antenatally through ultrasound, and may be categorised as apparently isolated versus associated with other malformations. Limited data exist on the long-term outcomes following antenatal diagnosis of apparently isolated CLP. AIM: This study examined the long-term post-natal outcomes of CLP when found in isolation antenatally, in order to determine the rates of unexpected additional anomalies, developmental delay or genetic syndromes. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective chart review of antenatal and post-natal medical charts was completed for a ten-year period between January 2000 and December 2009. At least 2 years of available post-natal clinical information was required for inclusion in the study. RESULTS: A total of 97 cases of antenatally isolated CLP were ascertained. Fifteen pregnancies were terminated. Follow-up data were available for 81 liveborns, though 4 were lost to follow-up prior to 2 years of age. Twelve of the 77 children meeting study criteria were identified to have other major malformations and/or developmental disability either later in the pregnancy or post-natally. Findings included familial clefting syndromes, trisomy 21, autism spectrum disorders, brain malformations, fetal alcohol syndrome and Kabuki syndrome, among other findings. Another 11 children had additional anomalies of minor impact. Examples of findings include a perimembranous ventricular septal defect, mild unilateral optic nerve hypoplasia, mild pulmonary artery stenosis with a small atrial septal defect, and transient delays in fine and gross motor skills. No children with clefting of the lip only had major additional diagnoses.