Department Of Pediatric Surgery Research Articles

Symptomatic Intraparenchymal Epididymal Cysts: Description of 11 cases.

Epididymal cysts are benign cystic formations of the epididymis that usually appear in adolescence or early adulthood. Their frequency doubles after the age of 14-15. Obstruction in the epididymal efferent ductules with subsequent prostenotic dilatation of them, as well as dysgenesis due to hormonal disorders during fetal or postnatal life, are possible. At the 1st Department of Pediatric Surgery of A.U.Th. we treated 11 cases of boys at the age of 11-16 who presented with acute scrotum because of an epididymal cyst. The diagnosis was confirmed by ultrasound scanning . Due to persistent symptomatology, patients underwent surgical exploration and removal of the cyst. The postoperative care of the patients was uncomplicated with immediate remission of symptoms. In one case, ipsilateral acute epididymitis occurred after 10 days, which was successfully treated with antibiotic therapy. It is reported that approximately 50% of epididymal cysts involute within an average of 17 months. In conclusion, using the data obtained from the review, of the small in number of international bibliography studies, it is proposed conservative treatment of asymptomatic cysts with diameter smaller than 1 cm and surgical excision [1] of large asymptomatic cysts with diameter greater than 1 cm, which do not regress after a follow-up of 24-48 months, cysts, regardless of their diameter, responsible for persistent symptoms and in the manifestation of acute scrotal symptoms due to inflammation, intravesical bleeding or secondarily torsion of the epididymis.

Fifteen Years' Experience of Thoracoscopic Sympathetic Chain Interruption for Palmar Hyperhidrosis in Children and Adolescents: Evaluation of Different Techniques.

Background: Thoracoscopic sympathetic chain interruption is a definitive and effective therapy for severe primary palmar hyperhidrosis (PPH). Well-known methods include sympathectomy, sympathotomy, and clipping, but the occurrence of compensatory sweating offsets these methods. This study aims to report our experience with thoracoscopic sympathetic chain interruption in a large group of patients of age <18 years with PPH, focusing on surgical outcomes, complication rates, and patient satisfaction. Patients and Methods: This retrospective study included patients who underwent thoracoscopic sympathectomy, sympathotomy, or clipping for severe PPH between April 2008 and March 2023 at the Pediatric Surgery Department, Al-Azhar University Hospitals. Demographic and clinical data, operative steps, postoperative outcomes, complications, and patient satisfaction were reviewed from the patients' medical records. Results: During the 15-year study period, 420 children with PPH underwent bilateral thoracoscopic sympathetic chain interruption by either sympathectomy, sympathotomy, or clipping, with a sex ratio of 60% being females. The mean ages were 12 ± 3.48, 13 ± 2.45, and 13 ± 2.45 years, respectively. Sympathectomy was performed in 190 patients (45.2%), sympathotomy in 170 patients (40.5%), and clipping in 60 patients (14.3%). All patients had completed follow-up, with mean periods of ∼43 ± 5 months, 45 ± 3 months, and 42 ± 6 months, respectively. Complete palmar dryness was achieved in 405 patients (overall 96.4%) (97.8% after sympathectomy, 97.05% after sympathotomy, and 90% after clipping), whereas 2.1%, 2.9%, and 10% of patients experienced symptom recurrence, respectively, denoting significant statistical differences. Overall, 94 patients (22.4%) experienced compensatory sweating. Eventually, 409 patients (97.4%) were satisfied with the outcome, whereas 11 patients (2.6%) reported dissatisfaction, yet no significant differences found. Conclusion: The presented three modalities of thoracoscopic sympathetic chain interruption for PPH in children and adolescents are safe and effective, with overall very high postoperative satisfaction, despite a relatively high rate of compensatory sweating in sympathectomy group. Other major complications in this age population were scanty.

Interstitial Cells of Cajal and P2X3 Receptors at Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction and Their Relationship with Pain Response.

Introduction: Etiopathogenesis and the symptomatology of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in the pediatric population has not yet been definitely clarified, suggesting a multifactorial nature of the condition. The aim was to analyze the association between the number of Interstitial Cells of Cajal (ICCs), as well as P2X3 receptors in ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) and the pain response in pediatric patients with hydronephrosis. Methods: 50 patients with congenital hydronephrosis underwent open or laparoscopic pyeloplasty at one of two departments of pediatric surgery and urology in Poland. Patients were divided into two groups according to the pain symptoms before surgery. A total of 50 samples of UPJ were obtained intraoperatively and underwent histopathological and immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis. Quantitative assessment of ICCs was based on the number of CD117(+) cells of adequate morphology in the subepithelial layer and the muscularis propria. Expression of P2X3 receptors was evaluated as the intensity of IHC staining. Results: Patients with hydronephrosis and accompanying pain were on average 60 months older (77 vs. 17 months) than children with asymptomatic hydronephrosis (p = 0.017). Symptomatic children revealed higher numbers of ICCs in both the subepithelial layer and in the lamina muscularis propria. In particular, symptomatic patients aged 2 years or more exhibited significantly higher numbers of ICCs in the subepithelial layer. Significant differences in the distribution of ICCs between the subepithelial layer and the lamina muscularis propria were observed in both groups. Expression of P2X3 receptors was limited to the urothelium and the muscle layer and correlated between these structures. There was no relationship between pain response and the expression of P2X3 receptors. Conclusions: ICCs and P2X3 receptors may participate in the pathogenesis of UPJO and in the modulation of pain response to a dilatation of the pyelocaliceal system. Explanation of the role of ICCs and P2X3 receptors in propagation of ureteral peristaltic wave and the modulation of pain stimuli requires further studies.

Clinical Relevance of Pathological Diagnosis of Hirschsprung's Disease with Acetylcholine-Esterase Histochemistry or Calretinin Immunohistochemistry.

Hirschsprung disease (HD) manifests as a developmental anomaly affecting the enteric nervous system, where there is an absence of ganglion cells in the lower part of the intestine. This deficiency leads to functional blockages within the intestines. HD is usually confirmed or ruled out through rectal biopsy. The identification of any ganglion cells through hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining rules out HD. If ganglion cells are absent, further staining with acetylcholine-esterase (AChE) histochemistry or calretinin immunohistochemistry (IHC) forms part of the standard procedure for determining a diagnosis of HD. In 2017, our Institute of Pathology at University Hospital of Heidelberg changed our HD diagnostic procedure from AChE histochemistry to calretinin IHC. In this paper, we report the impact of the diagnostic procedure change on surgical HD therapy procedures and on the clinical outcome of HD patients. We conducted a retrospective review of the diagnostic procedures, clinical data, and postoperative progress of 29 patients who underwent surgical treatment for HD in the Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Heidelberg, between 2012 and 2021. The patient sample was divided into two groups, each covering a treatment period of 5 years. In 2012-2016, HD diagnosis was performed exclusively using AChE histochemistry (AChE group, n = 17). In 2017-2021, HD diagnosis was performed exclusively using calretinin IHC (CR group, n = 12). There were no significant differences between the groups in sex distribution, weeks of gestation, birth weight, length of the aganglionic segment, or associated congenital anomalies. Almost half of the children in the AChE group, twice as many as in the CR group, required an enterostomy before transanal endorectal pull-through procedure (TERPT). In the AChE group, 4 patients (23.5%) required repeat bowel sampling to confirm the diagnosis. Compared to the AChE group, more children in the CR group suffered from constipation post TERPT. Elevated AChE expression is linked to hypertrophied extrinsic cholinergic nerve fibers in the aganglionic segment in the majority of patients with HD. The manifestation of increased AChE expression develops over time. Therefore, in neonatal patients with HD, especially those in the first 3 weeks of life, an increase in AChE reaction is not detected. Calretinin IHC reliably identifies the presence or absence of ganglion cells and offers multiple benefits over AChE histochemistry. These include the ability to perform the test on paraffin-embedded tissue sections, a straightforward staining pattern, a clear binary interpretation (negative or positive), cost-effectiveness, and utility regardless of patient age. The ability of calretinin IHC to diagnose HD early and time-independently prevented repeated intestinal biopsies in our patient population and allowed us to perform a one-stage TERPT in the first months of life, reducing the number of enterostomies and restoring colonic continuity early. Patients undergoing transanal pull-through under the age of 3 months require a close follow-up to detect cases with bowel movement problems.

MEGAURETHIR IN CHILDREN: METHODS OF ENDOSCOPIC CORRECTION

Megaureter is a severe pathology of the urinary system. According to the World Health Organization, according to the number and structure of diseases, malformations of the urinary system organs in children occupy one of the leading places among pathologiesof all organs and systems. The purpose of the study was to determine the effectiveness of endoscopic methods for correcting megaurethritis in children. The study presents the results of treatment of 116 patients with refluxing and obstructive megaureter on the basis of the Department of Pediatric Surgery No. 2 Samara State Medical University for the period from 2010 to 2022. The results of the examination revealed that the urodynamic characteristics of positive results after endoscopic correction of megaureter in a period of 3-6 months indicated a clear depending on the treatment results from the method of forming a bolus in the area of the ureterovesical segment: for mild severity, the STING method was effective, for moderate severity -HITI, and for severe severity -HITII.

Sacrococcygeal teratoma: an experience from a high-volume tertiary institute in North India

Background: Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) is the most common tumour in the newborn. The majority is present in neonates as a sacral mass; however, some may be present late with varied clinical presentation. The study aims to evaluate the clinical presentation and management of patients with SCT in our high-volume tertiary institute in North India. Methods: This is an observational study of infants and children treated between May 2021 to April 2022 in the department of pediatric surgery, SMS Medical College, Jaipur (a high-volume tertiary institute in North India). Data collected included antenatal diagnosis, mode of delivery, age at diagnosis, clinical presentation, Altman classification, surgical approach, histopathology and complications. Functional results were evaluated clinically and radiologically. Results: Twenty-one patients (M: F=1:3.2) with a median age of 40 days (range: 1 day to 5.8 years) with SCT were managed at our centre. Nearly, two-thirds of the tumors were either Altman type 1 or 2. Yolk sac tumour was present in 2 (9.5%) patients, while the rest had either mature or immature teratoma. Tumours were removed through a posterior sagittal approach (chevron incision). In five patients, an abdominoperineal approach was used. Early complications were surgical site infection (n=5; 23.8%), superficial wound dehiscence (n=2; 9.5%), complete wound dehiscence (n=1; 2.4%), and urinary tract infection (n=1; 4.7%). Late complications were urinary dribbling or poor stream (5/21; 23.8%) and faecal soiling (n=3; 14.2%). Conclusions: Most of the sacrococcygeal tumours are benign, and the incidence of malignancy increases with age. Morbidity due to associated malformation and treatment may persist in these patients, especially like urinary complications stream (one-fifth) and faecal incontinence (one-seventh), as seen in our series. A proper long-term follow-up is needed for the management of late complications.

Removal of the central venous port system in children. Is this an appropriate training procedure for resident physicians? A single-center retrospective study.

&lt;b&gt;Introduction:&lt;/b&gt; A venous port system consists of a port chamber attached to a central catheter, which is implanted into the central venous system. The removal of the vascular port includes all items of this system. This procedure is usually simple and quick. Complications with port removal are rare but possible.&lt;b&gt;Aim:&lt;/b&gt; The study aimed to summarize venous port removal procedures performed by pediatric surgeons.&lt;b&gt;Material and methods:&lt;/b&gt; The single-center, retrospective study was conducted on 360 pediatric patients treated during the years 2010-2022 in the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Traumatology, and Urology in Poznan.&lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; The port usage time before the removal ranged from 3 days to 8 years and 3 months, with an average of 22 months. The leading cause of vascular port removal was the end of treatment (78.06%). Other less frequent reasons were the infection (13.89%) and mechanical damage of the port (3.33%). There were almost no complications connected with the procedure of vascular port removal (92.2%). If the complications occurred, they included bleeding during surgery (3%), covering the vascular catheter with bone tissue of the clavicle, causing difficulties with the catheter removal from the vein (1.4%), and connected with the previous complications-prolonged clavicle pain after surgery (1.4%) and hematoma after surgery (2%).&lt;b&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/b&gt; Removing the venous port is a safe procedure with a low risk of complications. This procedure can be considered as an appropriate training procedure for young trainees. A more extended period of use of the vascular port before its removal may be associated with more difficulties during surgery.

Management of pancreatic and duodenal trauma in childhood: a university hospital experience over a 10-year period

PurposeDuodenal/pancreatic injuries occur in less than 10% of intra-abdominal injuries in pediatric blunt trauma. Isolated duodenal/pancreatic injuries occur in two-thirds of cases, while combined injuries occur in the remaining. This study aimed to investigate pediatric patients with pancreatic and duodenal trauma.MethodsData from 31 patients admitted to Atatürk University, Medical Faculty, Department of Pediatric Surgery for pancreatic/duodenal trauma between 2010 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Age/gender, province of origin, duration before hospital admission, trauma type, injured organs, injury severity, diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, complications, hospitalization duration, blood transfusion requirement, and mortality rate were recorded.ResultsTwenty-four patients were male, and 7 were female. The mean age was 9 years. The leading cause was bicycle accidents, with 12 cases, followed by traffic accidents/bumps, with 7 cases each. Comorbid organ injuries accompanied 18 cases. Duodenal trauma was most commonly accompanied by liver injuries (4/8), whereas pancreatic injury by pulmonary injuries (7/23). Serum amylase at initial hospital presentation was elevated in 83.9% of the patients. Thirty patients underwent abdominal CT, and FAST was performed in 20. While 54.8% of the patients were conservatively managed, 45.2% underwent surgery.ConclusionBecause of the anatomical proximity of the pancreas and the duodenum, both organs should be considered being co-affected by a localized trauma. Radiologic confirmation of perforation in duodenal trauma and an intra-abdominal pancreatic pseudocyst in pancreatic trauma are the most critical surgical indications of pancreaticoduodenal trauma. Conservative management’s success is increased in the absence of duodenal perforation and cases of non-symptomatic pancreatic pseudocyst.

Epidemiology of Fontan-associated liver disease in Japan: Results from a nationwide survey in 2021.

Although the Fontan procedure has improved the survival of patients with single-ventricle heart disease, the long-term consequences of the procedure have been a concern. This study aimed to explore the patients' postoperative clinical characteristics, including a diagnosis of Fontan-associated liver disease (FALD). A nationwide Japanese epidemiological survey of post-Fontan patients was undertaken in 2021. The survey targets were selected from all departments of pediatrics, pediatric surgery, cardiology, cardiovascular surgery, and gastroenterology using stratified random sampling by the number of beds. Each department was asked to complete a mail-back questionnaire on the numbers of patients and their clinical characteristics. The diagnosis of FALD was made by each attending physician. The estimated number of post-Fontan patients was 7810 (95% confidence interval, 5430-10200) in 2020, with a period prevalence of 61.9 per million. During the follow-up of 13.8years after the Fontan procedure, 40% of patients were diagnosed with FALD. An elevated γ-glutamyl transpeptidase level was the most common finding leading to the FALD diagnosis (41%), and 45% of the patients also showed liver fibrosis. Compared with non-FALD patients, FALD patients were older, had longer duration since the Fontan procedure, and had more severe cardiac or liver conditions. However, more than half of the non-FALD patients had elevated liver enzyme levels, suggesting underestimation of the number of FALD patients. In 2020, approximately 40% of post-Fontan patients underwent follow-up with a diagnosis of FALD, although the lack of established diagnostic criteria for FALD could affect the reported prevalence of FALD.

Mid-Term Outcome of the Hybrid Method of Ventricular Septal Defect Closure in Children.

&lt;b&gt;Objective: &lt;/b&gt;To describe the clinical experiences and mid-term follow-up results of the hybrid method of ventricular septal defect closure in children.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Methods: &lt;/b&gt;This study was a combined - multidirectional cohort. Between May 2016 and December 2020, 250 patients with isolated VSD (or residual VSD after a previous repair) underwent surgery by the hybrid method at the pediatric cardiac surgery department in the National Scientific Medical Center. This study adopted a combined and multidirectional cohort approach, initially starting as a retrospective cohort and later transitioning into a prospective cohort.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Results: &lt;/b&gt;A total of 250 patients in this cohort underwent hybrid VSD closure, of which 233 (93.2%) patients were successful, 16 (6.4%) patients were converted to the traditional method and 1 (0.4%) death occurred. New trivial or mild tricuspid regurgitation was detected in 35 patients (15%) and aortic regurgitation in 9 patients (3.9%) by intraoperative TEE. For the remaining 10 patients with incomplete right bundle branch blocks the sinus rhythm was restored in follow-up. In addition, the left ventricular ejection fraction improved over time. One of the important points after surgery is the deformation of the chest. In 122 (91%) patients, there is no deformation; unfortunately, in 12 (9%) patients, there is deformation.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Conclusions: &lt;/b&gt;The hybrid method is a rapidly developing technique that has been safe and effective in a selected group of patients in recent years. The advantages of this method are minimum incision namely the size and length of the postoperative scar from 2 to 4 cm. Also, no myocardial injury, and reduces operation time, intensive care unit stay, and hospital stays.

Management and outcomes of children with rhabdomyosarcoma in a low-to-middle-income country: A first report from Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, South Africa

BackgroundStudies done in South Africa show that Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) comprises 6 % of childhood malignancies. Very few centres in South Africa (SA) have reported their management and outcomes of children with RMS, and as such, it is difficult to compare outcomes and come up with management protocols befitting our environment. AimTo describe the management and outcomes of children with RMS at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH). SettingThe Departments of Paediatric Surgery and Paediatric Oncology. MethodsA retrospective review of clinical records of patients below 18 years of age with RMS, managed from 01 January 2008 to 31 December 2017. ResultsFifty-eight patients had RMS, 77 % embryonal and 21 % alveolar subtypes. Primary tumour site was favourable in 48 %, and unfavourable in 45 %. Thirty-three patients (57%,) had surgery for the primary tumour, whilst 25 patients (43 %) did not have surgery. Post-operative clinical groups were 29 % group I, 9 % group II, 43 % group III, and 19 % group IV. The overall 5-year survival was 55%. Predictors for a good outcome included early disease stage at presentation, favourable site, embryonal subtype, and surgery for the primary tumour. ConclusionThe 5-year survival of 55 % from this study is low when compared to high income countries but is comparable to middle income countries. The main factor contributing to mortality is patients presenting with unresectable advanced disease in unfavourable sites. Surgical resection plays a major role in improving outcomes. Level of evidenceIV

Meckel's Diverticulitis: About 5 Pediatric Observations Collected at the Nianankoro FOMBA Hospital in Ségou, Mali

Meckel's diverticulitis or meckelitis is the infection of the Meckel's diverticulum. The aim of this work was to study the epidemiological, diagnostic, therapeutic and evolutionary aspects in the pediatric surgery department of the Nianankoro FOMBA hospital in Ségou, Mali. This was a retrospective study concerning observations between July 2010 and June 2012. We reported 5 observations in 2 years, representing a frequency of 2.5 cases per year. The average age was 6.6 years and the sex ratio was 1.5. Diagnostically, abdominal pain was the main reason for consultation followed by fever and vomiting. Physical examination found in all cases abdominal pain more or less associated with guarding in the right iliac fossa and peri-umbilical area. Abdominal bloating and contracture were noted in one case. There was hyperleukocytosis in all our 5 observations. The diagnosis was an operative discovery in 4 cases. Ultrasound was contributory in one case. Therapeutically, segmental resection of the small intestine removing the diverticulum, followed by immediate end-to-end anastomosis of the small intestine was the only technique performed in all our patients. The postoperative course was simple in 4 cases. A wall abscess with a favorable outcome was noted. Histological examination confirmed meckelitis at different stages (inflammatory, abscessed, gangrenous or necrotic). Gastric heterotopia was noted in one observation.

Comparison of Outcome in Early Vs Conventional Feeding after Colostomy Closure in Paediatric Population

Background: The traditional practice of delaying enteral feeding after pediatric colostomy closure has been a subject of reconsideration in the wake of emerging evidence suggesting the benefits of early enteral nutrition. The hypothesis driving this shift stems from the understanding that early feeding may enhance recovery by improving gut function and reducing hospital stay, which is particularly significant in the pediatric population where rapid return to normal activities and minimizing hospital-associated stress are crucial.&#x0D; Objective: This study aimed to compare the outcomes of early enteral feeding versus conventional feeding protocols post-colostomy closure in pediatric patients, focusing on parameters such as the incidence of postoperative complications, the duration of hospital stay, and overall recovery.&#x0D; Methods: Conducted as a randomized controlled trial at the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children Hospital, Lahore, this study enrolled 70 pediatric patients, evenly divided into two groups: early enteral feeding (Group A) and conventional feeding (Group B). Both groups were meticulously matched for age, weight, and gender to ensure comparability. The study meticulously recorded and analyzed postoperative outcomes including anastomotic leakage, vomiting, upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), wound infections, and other complications using chi-square and t-tests for statistical significance.&#x0D; Results: The mean age of patients was 6.67 ± 3.42 years, with a balanced distribution between the groups (p = 0.917). In Group A, 8.6% experienced anastomotic leakage compared to 11.4% in Group B; vomiting occurred in 11.4% of Group A and 8.6% of Group B; URTI was noted in 2.9% of Group A versus 14.3% in Group B; wound infection rates were 8.6% for Group A and 14.3% for Group B. The average post-operative hospital stay significantly favored Group A at 4.26 ± 0.43 days versus 7.05 ± 0.32 days for Group B (p = 0.0001).&#x0D; Conclusion: Early enteral feeding after pediatric colostomy closure significantly reduces the hospital stay without increasing the risk of postoperative complications, suggesting a beneficial role in pediatric surgical recovery. This study supports the integration of early feeding protocols into postoperative care for pediatric colostomy patients, contributing to the evolving practice of pediatric surgery.

Role of Ultrasound Guided Pneumatic Reduction of Intussusception in Children Under 3 Years with Early Presentation

Background: Intussusception remains the most common cause of intestinal obstruction in children under 3 years of age. Objective: To evaluate the role of ultrasound guided pneumatic reduction of intussusception in children under 3 years with early presentation. Methods: This prospective interventional study was carried out at the Department of Pediatric Surgery in Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka from July, 2020 to June, 2022 for a period of 24 months. A total number of 22 patients with intussusception scheduled for Ultrasound Guided Pneumatic Reduction procedure to reduce intussusception were enrolled for this study after fulfilling the selection criteria. After Ultrasound Guided Pneumatic Reduction, patients were evaluated with duration of reduction, hospital stay and mass existence. Results: The mean age of the patients was 1.28 ± 0.83 years, ranging from 4 months to 3 years. Of them, 54.5% were below or equal to 1 year and the rest, 45.5% were above 1 year. All patients had abdominal pain and 86.4% palpable abdominal mass. Most of the mass situated at right hypochondrium (59.1%). The mean duration of reduction was 6.45 ± 1.29 minutes, ranging from 4 to 8 minutes. The mean duration of hospitalization was 15.90 ± 1.57 hours, ranging from 14 to 18 hours. In 9.1% of cases, the mass remained after the procedure. Conclusion: Intussusception can be effectively treated using pneumatic reduction, which is also quicker, less messy, and risk-free.

Effect of Perioperative Allogeneic Blood Transfusion in Causing Surgical Site Infection in Elective Gastrointestinal Surgeries: A Comparative Study among the Pediatric Population in A Tertiary Care Hospital of Bangladesh

Background: Allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT) has been reported as a major risk factor for surgical site infection (SSI) in patients undergoing elective gastrointestinal surgery. Objective: To find out whether perioperative allogeneic blood transfusion is a significant risk factor for surgical site infection in children undergoing elective gastrointestinal surgery. Methods: This prospective observational study was carried out at the Department of Pediatric Surgery in Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, from January, 2021, to June, 2022, for a period of 18 months. According to CDC standards, patients who underwent elective gastrointestinal surgical procedure or clean-contaminated surgical wound (class II) were chosen as the study population. Total 256 patients were divided into two groups according to the blood transfusion as transfused and non-transfused group. Preoperative and postoperative day 1 CBC were done to observe the lymphocyte count. Blood transfusions were recorded during the perioperative period. After surgery, patients were followed up to check for surgical site infection and anastomotic leakage. Pus or wound swab for C/S was done in all the patients who developed SSI. The duration of the hospital stay after surgery was also noted. Results: Most of the study subjects in both the groups were ≤5 years(p=0.095). Males were predominant than females in both groups (p=0.014). Infection was found significantly higher among the transfused group (34.6%) than non-transfused group (14.6%) (p=0.001). In both the groups common infection was superficial SSI (12.0% in transfused group and 6.5% in non-transfused group). Among the infections, bacterial growth was 39.1% in Group A and 38.9% in Group B (p&gt;0.786). Postoperative duration of hospital stay was 10.56 ± 4.05 days and 8.47 ± 2.67 days in Group A and Group B respectively (p&lt;0.001). Mean lymphocyte count in Group A and group B was (2353.9±1647.7 vs 3792.5±1455.9; p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Allogeneic blood ........

Evaluation of Outcomes of Subcutaneous Negative Suction Drain in Emergency Laparotomy in Children with Peritonitis

Background: Emergency laparotomy for peritonitis is associated with the highest rates of infective complication, especially surgical site infection (SSI) and it's linked to higher morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Aim of the Study: The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of subcutaneous negative suction drain in emergency laparotomy in children with peritonitis. Methodology: This prospective interventional study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka from January, 2020 to December 2021 over a period of two years. A total of 64 patients who underwent emergency laparotomy with features of peritonitis were enrolled in this study as per selection criteria. They were divided into two groups equally. Subcutaneous negative suction drain was used in Group A patients, and in Group B patient’s standard of care was provided. Patients were followed up to 30thpostoperative day. Outcome was evaluated by superficial surgical site infection (s-SSI), wound dehiscence, secondary suturing and duration of hospital stay. Superficial surgical site infection(s-SSI) assessed by CDC criteria of surgical site infection on 3rd, 5th, 7th, 14th&amp; 30thpostoperative day. Microsoft Excel was used for data analysis. Results: Mean age of the study populations in Group A was 8.41 ± 2.27 years and Group B was 8.95 ± 2.27 years. Male were predominant than female in both the two groups. s-SSI was observed significantly(p=0.016) lower in Group A (9.4%) than Group B (34.4%). Culture &amp; sensitivity growth was observed significantly(p=0.020) lower in Group A (6.3%) than Group B (28.1%). Wound dehiscence was (9.4%) in Group A and (28.1%) in Group B. Secondary suturing was (3.1%) and (15.6%) in Group A and Group B respectively. Duration of hospital stay was found significantly (p=0.011) lesser in Group A than Group B (6.68 ± 2.14 vs 8.50 ± 3.29) days. Conclusion: Subcutaneous negative suction drain reduces the post-operative superficial ..

Thoracic Musculoskeletal Deformities Following Surgical Treatment of Esophageal Atresia - Thoracoscopic Versus Open Approach: A Retrospective Two Centers Cohort Study

IntroductionThoracic musculoskeletal deformities are significant complications following open correction of esophageal atresia (EA) during long-term follow-up. We aimed to compare the frequency and severity of thoracic musculoskeletal deformities after open and thoracoscopic repair of EA. We hypothesized that fewer deformities would occur following the less invasive thoracoscopic approach. MethodsThis retrospective study analyzed patients treated at two pediatric surgery departments in Poland between 2005 and 2021. The patient groups differed in surgical approach, operative techniques, indications for multi-staged surgery, and postoperative complications. The study encompassed all types of EA/TEF. The first group comprised 68 patients who underwent thoracoscopic esophageal atresia repair (Wroclaw), while the second group involved 44 patients who underwent open repair (Warsaw). Clinical data were retrospectively reviewed, with results considered significant at p < 0.05. ResultsThe median age at examination was 6 years in the thoracoscopy group and 5.5 years in the thoracotomy group. In the thoracoscopy group, 53 out of 68 patients (77.9%) and in the thoracotomy group – 35 out of 44 patients (79.5%) were treated in one stage. The incidence of thoracic musculoskeletal deformities was significantly lower in the thoracoscopy group (1.5%) compared to the thoracotomy group (34.1%, p < 0.001). Scoliosis occurred significantly more often after thoracotomy (13.6% vs 1.5%, p = 0.016). There was no rib fusion (0% vs 37.1%, p < 0.001) and no scoliosis of =>20° (0% vs 6.8%, p = 0.058) after thoracoscopy. The coincidence of rib fusion and scoliosis was significant (9.1%, p = 0.022) for the open approach. In the thoracotomy group, multi-staged surgery and more frequent reoperations due to major complications were significantly associated with an increased occurrence of deformities. None of the patients after thoracoscopic multi-stage or complicated EA/TEF repair developed scoliosis. ConclusionsThe frequency and severity of thoracic musculoskeletal deformities were significantly lower after the thoracoscopic approach. Thoracoscopy may be a more advantageous and preferred surgical approach for the EA/TEF treatment, although further randomized, controlled studies are necessary. Post-thoracotomy scoliosis may progress to a severity requiring surgery.

Evaluation of the Management of Gastroschisis in Aristide Le Dantec University Hospital Center in Dakar: A Cross Sectional Study.

The management of gastroschisis remains problematic in low- and middle-income countries with high perioperative mortality. The objective of this work was to make an initial assessment of our management of gastroschisis. This was a monocentric and cross-sectional study including all newborns with gastroschisis between January 2017 and December 2021 in the Pediatric Surgery and Anesthesia Resuscitation Department of the Aristide Le Dantec University Hospital Center from Dakar. The socio-demographic, diagnostic, therapeutic and evolutionary parameters were studied. Eighteen cases of gastroschisis (11 males and 7 females). The mothers' mean age were 23.1 ± 5.7 years old. Only one antenatal diagnosis was made. The mean gestation age were 36.5 ± 1.5 weeks. On admission, the mean age was 16.8 ± 6.3 h and the mean weight 2244 ± 260.3 g. Gastroschisis was complex in four patients. Primary bowel reintegration was performed in 8 cases (44.4%) and progressive reintegration using an Applied Alexis retractor in 9 newborns (55.6%). Main complications were respiratory distress (28.3%) and sepsis (22.2%). The mean duration of return of oral feeding was 5.1 ± 1.9 days. Mortality was 94.4% (17/18). Reducing gastroschisis-related mortality in our low-income countries remains a major challenge.

Suspected Simple Appendicitis in Children: Should We Use a Nonoperative, Antibiotic-Free Approach? An Observational Study.

Simple appendicitis may be self-limiting or require antibiotic treatment or appendectomy. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of a nonoperative, antibiotic-free approach for suspected simple appendicitis in children. This single-center, retrospective study included patients (0-17 years old) who were hospitalized at the pediatric surgery department due to suspected appendicitis between 2011 and 2012. Data from patients who primarily underwent appendectomy were used as controls. The follow-up of nonoperatively managed patients was conducted in 2014. The main outcome of interest was appendicitis recurrence. A total of 365 patients were included: 226 were treated conservatively and 139 underwent appendectomy. Fourteen (6.2% of 226) of the primarily nonoperatively treated patients required secondary appendectomy during follow-up, and histology confirmed simple, uncomplicated appendicitis in 10 (4.4% of 226) patients. Among a subset of 53 patients managed nonoperatively with available Alvarado and/or Pediatric Appendicitis Scores and sonographic appendix diameters in clinical reports, 29 met the criteria for a high probability of appendicitis. Three of these patients (10.3% of 29) underwent secondary appendectomy. No complications were reported during follow-up. A conservative, antibiotic-free approach may be considered for pediatric patients with suspected uncomplicated appendicitis in a hospital setting. Only between 6 and 10% of these patients required secondary appendectomy. Nevertheless, the cohort of patients treated nonoperatively was likely to have also included individuals with further abdominal conditions other than appendicitis. Active observation and clinical support during the disease course may help patients avoid unnecessary procedures and contribute to spontaneous resolution of appendicitis or other pediatric conditions as the cause of abdominal pain. However, further studies are needed to define validated diagnostic and management criteria.

LAPAROSCOPIC EXPLORATION FOR INFANTILE HYPERTROPHIC PYLORIC STENOSIS: AN EXPERIENCE AT TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Objectives: This study aims to share our experience of laparoscopic exploration for infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. Material and methods: This retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar from June 2017 to July 2020. This study includes all patients whose diagnosis of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) was confirmed through ultrasound parameters and laparoscopic pyloromyotomy was performed. Data was retrieved from the laparoscopic surgery record. Retrieved data was tabulated and fed in SPSS 25 for analysis. Results: This study included 42 patients with a mean age of 50.28 ±18.5days and a mean weight of 3.35±0.76 kg. Male patients were 57 % while females were 43 %. The mean time to resuscitate the patient pre-operatively was 34.6±15.4 hours while the mean postoperative hospital stay was 45±12.47 hours. The mean operative time was 31.6±10.4 min. Operative time decreased with time depicting improvement in our learning curve (p=0.004). The method of working instrument placement had no impact on operative time (p=0.337). Meantime to full oral feed was 9.7±5.1 hours. We did not encounter mucosal perforation or incomplete myotomy. No surgery was converted to open. Conclusion: Laparoscopic pyloromyotomy is a safe and effective method of treatment for infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. Keywords: laparoscopic pyloromyotomy, pyloric stenosis, IHPS