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Introduction Pigtail catheter (PGC) insertion due to spontaneous pneumothorax (SPT) in the pediatric population has increased markedly in the last years. However, only few studies examined its efficacy in terms of length of hospitalization, rate of complications, and especially pain management comparing to large bore catheter (LBC) insertion. We sought to compare analgetic drug consumption, efficacy, and complication rate between PGC and LBC in children with SPT. Materials and Methods This is a single-center retrospective study of pediatric patients that were admitted to the Schneider Children's Medical Center between 2013 and 2021 with a diagnosis of SPT. The following data were collected: type of drainage (PGC or LBC), duration of drainage, length of hospitalization, number of X-rays, complication rate, surgery during hospitalization, readmission due to SPT, and pain management. Results Seventeen PGC and 23 LBC were inserted in our study. No differences were noted in terms of hospitalization length, tube reposition or replacement, and recurrence of SPT between the groups. Patients with PGC underwent less X-rays comparing to the LBC group (3 X-rays vs. 5, median, p < 0.005). Oral analgesic use in terms of length of therapy was significantly lower in the PGC group than in the LBC group (1 vs. 3+ days, median, p < 0.05). There was no major complication in this cohort. Conclusion PGC is an effective, safe, and less painful alternative compared with a LBC for the drainage of SPT in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) is a common surgical disease. Multiple surgical methods exist in the literature, without clear consensus regarding which should be the first‐line treatment. Minimally invasive methods such as the Gips procedure are gaining popularity in recent years. The aim of our study was to assess recurrence rates following the Gips procedure and to determine whether using the same surgical approach during re‐operation is efficient and successful. Methods: This is a single‐center retrospective observational study of pediatric patients that underwent Gips procedure due to PSD between the years 2012–2022. Results: 565 pediatric patients underwent an elective surgery for PSD in the study period. Recurrence rate was 8.1% (n = 46). In all the patients with recurrence, re‐operation took place on average 9 months following the first surgery and using the same surgical method. Following the second surgery, only 8 patients (1%) had multiple recurrences. Conclusions: We found a relatively low recurrence rate in the pediatric population using the Gips method, and nearly 100% success rate following the second operation. Our findings set a new benchmark for pediatric recurrence following PSD operation, with clear recommendation to use the same method of surgery upon further recurrences as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adolescent obesity has markedly increased worldwide, and metabolic bariatric surgery is an effective treatment option. A major predictor of the outcomes of this procedure is adherence to post-surgery lifestyle changes and medical recommendations. While adolescents generally have more difficulty adhering to medical advice than adults, their failure to do so could adversely affect their physical and psychological health, the cost-effectiveness of medical care, and the results of clinical trials. To our knowledge, this is the first attempt to identify the characteristics associated with the adherence of adolescents and their families to medical advice after bariatric surgery. Methods: We investigated potential variables influencing adherence to medical advice in adolescents diagnosed with severe obesity enrolled in a nutritional and behavior-oriented bariatric program—a 3-month pre-surgical outpatient intervention and a 6-month post-surgical follow-up. The program monitored weight, program attendance, diet compliance, lifestyle changes, and daily activities. All participants and parents completed a standard battery of questionnaires, provided demographic information, and participated in a semi-structured interview about their lifestyle. Results: The study group consisted of 47 adolescents: 34 girls and 13 boys, aged 13–18 years. Over time, three groups emerged with different degrees of adherence—high, low, and delayed low adherence. The analyses showed that adolescents' depression, autonomy, and independence from their family had strong, significant effects on adherence across the groups. Conclusions: Using adherence typologies, practitioners may be able to identify, predict, and tailor interventions to improve adolescent adherence to post-surgery recommendations. Parents have an important role in ensuring that adolescents undergoing metabolic bariatric surgery follow medical advice after the procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Correct diagnosis of acute appendicitis may sometimes be challenging. The Negative appendectomy rate (NAR) has declined in the recent years in Europe and USA, in part due to better diagnostic imaging tools. The aim of this study was to examine the rates of negative appendectomy in our institution, investigate trends in its incidence, and identify possible predicting factors. Methods: A retrospective cohort study, including all patients younger than 18 years of age who underwent an appendectomy between 2007 and 2021 in a single tertiary medical center. Data regarding patient's demographics, laboratory and imaging results, pathological results and clinical outcome were collected. Results: Between 2007 and 2021, a total of 3937 pediatric patients underwent appendectomy due to a working diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Overall, 143 patients (3.6%) had normal appendix on pathological examination. However, in the last 5 years, the rate of normal appendix was 1.9%, together with an increased rate of pre‐operative imaging (from 40% to nearly 100%). Conclusion: Low NAR under 2% is an achievable benchmark in the era of accessible pre‐operative imaging. In unequivocal cases, a secondary survey that includes repeated physical examination, blood work and imaging is recommended and may result in near‐zero rates of NAR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global objective of this paper is to review from the "Fellow" perspective, the current status of pediatric minimal access surgery (MAS) in terms of teaching feasibility, safety and impact on standard practice paradigms. In the pediatric general surgery field, surgeons are dealing with a wide range of pathology that includes thoracic, abdominal, urological and gynecological procedures. The learning curve is slow because of a relatively small volume of patients. However, gradually but steadily, a significant proportion of the procedures traditionally performed, with major open exposures at present, are preferentially performed by minimal access. Currently, minimal access surgery training is incorporated into adult general surgery residency/fellowship programs and teaching techniques of pediatric MAS are available only as seldom international workshops. Pediatric surgery fellowship programs with incorporated guidelines for MAS training are just recently feasible in select centers, mostly as "self" established programs. In many other pediatric surgery centers, teaching the "glamour" of MAS is quite dependent on a program director′s vision. Integration of MAS training into the secondary residency/fellowship curriculum of pediatric surgeons is the inevitable goal. MAS- minded education and research through adequate training will pay dividends and "manufacture" competent, contemporary trainees. National Pediatric Surgery Associations should be responsible for setting criteria that consider the MAS for accreditation with maintaining the international standards of these teaching programs.

Aim: Ingestion of multiple magnets is increasing these last 15 years in children. They have resulted in numerous reports of serious gastrointestinal complications such as bowel obstruction, ischaemia, necrosis, perforation and fistula formation and even led to death. The increasing number of world-wide reports of complications secondary to magnet ingestion and a frequently delayed diagnosis point to a lack of awareness about these risks among medical care-givers in our country and parents in general.Methods: We reviewed retrospectively all cases of multiple magnet ingestion that required a gastro-intestinal or surgical procedure for removal from 2009 to 2020.Results: Five children underwent gastroscopy removal and three colonoscopy removal of the magnets. Five patients required surgical (laparotomy or laparoscopy) removal of multiple magnets with intestinal perforations.Conclusions: We propose an updated management algorithm for multiple magnet ingestion to highlight awareness among primary physicians and parents of the presenting circumstances and symptoms as well as the potential complications associated with multiple magnet ingestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The sacral ratio (SR) was described as a postnatal X‐ray‐based method to detect sacral abnormalities and predict functional prognosis for fecal continence in children with anorectal malformations (ARMs). The present study aimed to describe a novel method of assessing sonographic fetal sacral ratio (f‐SR) in a normal population of fetuses. Methods: Sixty three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound reconstruction images of the sacrum obtained from routine low‐risk scans performed between 21 and 26 weeks of gestation served for measurement. The f‐SR was calculated in a coronal view as the ratio between lines drawn at the upper and lower levels of the iliac bone and the 5th sacral vertebra. Bland–Altman plots assessed the inter‐ and intrareader variabilities of measurements. Results: The f‐SR in the normal population of fetuses was 0.913 (±0.094). During the study period, three cases with ARM were examined and had a mean f‐SR of 0.55. There was good repeatability of measurements and between readers' agreement. Conclusions: The present study introduces a novel prenatal sonographic f‐SR that can be reliably calculated on prenatal 3D ultrasound with good reliability and reproducibility. Future research will identify the clinical significance of f‐SR abnormalities in ARM and their long‐term impact on continence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) and surgical gastrostomy (SG) are common procedures in children with neurological impairment (NI) with swallowing difficulties. Pulmonary aspirations are a major concern and performing concomitant or delayed fundoplication is still controversial, especially among these patients. The aim of our study was to review our experience with fundoplication performed concomitantly with gastrostomy or later and to evaluate patient outcomes. Methods: This is a retrospective, cohort study including all paediatric patients who underwent SG or PEG with or without Nissen fundoplication at Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel between the years 2007 and 2018. Patients' clinical and surgical data were recorded and analysed. Results: Between 2007 and 2018, 345 patients underwent SG or PEG. Of these, 89 patients underwent fundoplication. Of the patients who underwent PEG/SG, 158 (45.8%) were neurologically impaired. Most of the patients who underwent fundoplication (n = 69, 77.5%) were NI patients (P = 0.0001). NI patients with refractory seizures showed almost no improvement in terms of relief of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease symptoms following fundoplication (P = 0.0001) compared to NI patients without refractory seizures. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that in NI patients a concomitant fundoplication is not mandatory and is not efficacious in preventing gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease in patients with refractory seizures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To present seven paediatric patients with appendicitis, all with late diagnosis resulting from different aspects of the fear from the current global COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: Cases were collected from three paediatric surgical wards. Comparison between complicated appendicitis rates in the COVID-19 era and similar period in previous year was performed.Results: All seven children presented with complicated appendicitis. Main reasons for the delayed diagnosis during the COVID-19 era were parental concern, telemedicine use and insufficient evaluation. Higher complication rates were found during the COVID-19 era compared to similar period in previous year (22% vs 11%, P-value .06).Conclusion: The fear from COVID-19 pandemic may result in delayed diagnosis and higher complication rates in common paediatric medical conditions. We believe caregivers and healthcare providers should not withhold necessary medical care since delay in diagnosis and treatment in these routinely seen medical emergencies may become as big of a threat as COVID-19 itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction:  Acute appendicitis is the most common emergency condition in pediatric surgery. Historically, a triple-antibiotic therapy consisted of ampicillin, gentamicin, and clindamycin has been used postoperatively for perforated appendicitis. According to recently published trials, dual therapy consists of ceftriaxone and metronidazole only, offers a more efficient and cost-effective antibiotic management compared with triple therapy. Based on these results, our department applied dual antibiotic therapy for children with perforated appendicitis that underwent appendectomy from 2009 and forth.Aim:  The aim of our study was to compare postoperative outcomes between patients treated with triple therapy (ampicillin, gentamicin, and metronidazole) (group A) versus dual therapy (ceftriaxone and metronidazole) (group B).Methods:  Clinical and laboratory data were retrospectively collected by review of the medical records for all children who underwent appendectomy for the perforated appendix at the Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, a tertiary pediatric care center between 2007 and 2011. Children with perforated appendicitis received antibiotic therapy in accordance with the hospital's guidelines that were valid at the time the surgery took place. In the first period (years 2007-2009) (group A) a triad of ampicillin, gentamicin, and metronidazole and the second period (2009-2011) (group B) dual therapy consists of ceftriaxone and metronidazole. The two groups were compared for outcome and complications, such as wound infections, changing of antibiotic therapy, and length of stay.Results:  During the study period 1,203 patients underwent an appendectomy. Of these, 175 patients were diagnosed with perforated appendix and were treated with postoperative antibiotic's regimen. Group A and group B consisted of 89 and 86 patients, respectively. The two groups were not different significantly in terms of demographic data, length of stay, or readmission rates. However, more rates of wound infection and changing of antibiotic therapy were seen in group B, although not statistically significant (p = 0.064).Conclusion:  Dual antibiotic therapy for perforated appendicitis is a cost-effective and efficient mode of therapy compared with triple-antibiotic's regimen. However, prospective studies are required to determine whether this policy is associated with higher rates of wound infections and change in antibiotic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent evidence suggests that elevated intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) may adversely affect the intestinal barrier function. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) is responsible for the recognition of bacterial endotoxin or lipopolysaccharide and for initiation of the Gram-negative septic shock syndrome. The objective of the current study was to determine the effects of elevated IAP on intestinal bacterial translocation (BT) and TLR-4 signaling in intestinal mucosa in a rat model.Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to one of two experimental groups: sham animals (Sham) and IAP animals who were subjected to a 15 mmHg pressure pneumoperitoneum for 30 minutes. Rats were sacrificed 24 hours later. BT to mesenteric lymph nodes, liver, portal vein blood, and peripheral blood was determined at sacrifice. TLR4-related gene and protein expression (TLR-4; myeloid differentiation factor 88 [Myd88] and TNF-α receptor-associated factor 6 [TRAF6]) expression were determined using real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry.Results: Thirty percent of sham rats developed BT in the mesenteric lymph nodes (level I) and 20% of control rats developed BT in the liver and portal vein (level II). abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) rats demonstrated an 80% BT in the lymph nodes (Level I) and 40% BT in the liver and portal vein (Level II). Elevated BT was accompanied by a significant increase in TLR-4 immunostaining in jejunum (51%) and ileum (35.9%), and in a number of TRAF6-positive cells in jejunum (2.1%) and ileum (24.01%) compared to control animals. ACS rats demonstrated a significant increase in TLR4 and MYD88 protein levels compared to control animals.Conclusions: Twenty-four hours after the induction of elevated IAP in a rat model, increased BT rates were associated with increased TLR4 signaling in intestinal mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Over the last 15 years thoracoscopic lobectomy for congenital and acquired lesions has become an accepted modality in pediatric thoracic surgery. There is still debate about the need to perform a complete lobectomy for some of these lesions, and some advocate observation rather than resection, despite possible long-term complications of untreated lesions. High-resolution computed tomography (CT) scans and physical findings at the time of surgery, along with new advanced techniques, now allow for discrete partial anatomic resections, which may preserve normal lung. This study evaluates the feasibility and early results using these techniques in selected cases. Patients and Methods: With institutional review board approval, the records of all patients undergoing thoracoscopic lung resection were reviewed. From January 2006 to December 2012, 23 patients, ranging from 1 month to 16 years of age and weighing 3.8-42 kg, underwent thoracoscopy for planned resection. Pathology was congenital cystic lung disease in 19 patients, bronchiectasis in 3 patients, and arteriovenous malformation in 1 patient. In each case findings on CT scan and at the time of surgery warranted consideration of lung-preserving surgery. Procedures were performed through three ports using single lung ventilation and CO2 insufflation to achieve lung collapse. The LigaSure™ device (Covidien, Norwalk, CT) was the primary instrument used to seal and divide the lung parenchyma and seal vessels. Results: All procedures were completed successfully thoracoscopically. An anatomic segmental resection was achieved in 22 of 23 cases. Operative time ranged from 30 to 300 minutes (mean, 120 minutes). Segmental resections included the left upper lobe apical/posterior ( n=4), lingula ( n=3), left lower lobe superior ( n=5), medial or posterior basal ( n=3), right middle lobe medial ( n=1), right upper lobe apical ( n=1), right lower lobe superior ( n=4), and posterior basal ( n=2). Two patients had more than one segment excised. Chest tubes were left in for 24 hours in 16 cases, 48 hours in 4 cases, and 5 days in 1 case. Hospital stay ranged from 1 to 6 days (mean, 2 days). Follow-up CT scans obtained at 1-6 years (mean, 28 months) show no residual disease in 20 of 21 patients. One patient underwent a nonanatomic resection and had evidence of recurrent congenital pulmonary airway malformation at the 4-year follow-up. This patient underwent a secondary thoracoscopic resection. Conclusions: Thoracoscopic lung-conserving therapy is technically feasible and safe in infants and children. The magnification provided by a thoracoscopic approach makes identification of segmental anatomic planes easier, aiding in safe dissection and resection. Anatomic resection appears to be associated with a low morbidity. It may be appropriate in the case of bilateral or extensive disease or in cases where the diseased tissue is clearly limited to an anatomic segment. Continued long-term follow-up is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Over the last 15 years thoracoscopic lobectomy for congenital and acquired lesions has become an accepted modality in pediatric thoracic surgery. There is still debate about the need to perform a complete lobectomy for some of these lesions, and some advocate observation rather then resection, despite possible longterm complications of untreated lesions. High-resolution computed tomography (CT) scans and physical findings at the time of surgery, along with new advanced techniques, now allow for discrete partial anatomic resections, which may preserve normal lung. This study evaluates the feasibility and early results using these techniques in selected cases. Patients and Methods: With institutional review board approval, the records of all patients undergoing thoracoscopic lung resection were reviewed. From January 2006 to December 2012, 23 patients, ranging from 1 month to 16 years of age and weighing 3.8-42 kg, underwent thoracoscopy for planned resection. Pathology was congenital cystic lung disease in 19 patients, bronchiectasis in 3 patients, and arteriovenous malformation in 1 patient. In each case findings on CT scan and at the time of surgery warranted consideration of lung-preserving surgery. Procedures were performed through three ports using single lung ventilation and CO2 insufflation to achieve lung collapse. The LigaSure device (Covidien, Norwalk, CT) was the primary instrument used to seal and divide the lung parenchyma and seal vessels. Results: All procedures were completed successfully thoracoscopically. An anatomic segmental resection was achieved in 22 of 23 cases. Operative time ranged from 30 to 300 minutes (mean, 120 minutes). Segmental resections included the left upper lobe apical/posterior (n = 4), lingula (n = 3), left lower lobe superior (n = 5), medial or posterior basal (n = 3), right middle lobe medial (n = 1), right upper lobe apical (n = 1), right lower lobe superior (n = 4), and posterior basal (n = 2). Two patients had more than one segment excised. Chest tubes were left in for 24 hours in 16 cases, 48 hours in 4 cases, and 5 days in 1 case. Hospital stay ranged from 1 to 6 days (mean, 2 days). Follow-up CT scans obtained at 1-6 years (mean, 28 months) show no residual disease in 20 of 21 patients. One patient underwent a nonanatomic resection and had evidence of recurrent congenital pulmonary airway malformation at the 4-year follow-up. This patient underwent a secondary thoracoscopic resection. Conclusions: Thoracoscopic lung-conserving therapy is technically feasible and safe in infants and children. The magnification provided by a thoracoscopic approach makes identification of segmental anatomic planes easier, aiding in safe dissection and resection. Anatomic resection appears to be associated with a low morbidity. It may be appropriate in the case of bilateral or extensive disease or in cases where the diseased tissue is clearly limited to an anatomic segment. Continued long-term follow-up is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hyperhidrosis can cause significant professional and social handicaps. Surgery is the preferred treatment modality for hyperhidrosis. There has been evolution in the surgical management of hyperhidrosis. This study evaluated the place of minimally invasive surgical approach and its long-term outcome in the management of hyperhidrosis. Patients and Methods: A 10-year prospective study of all children and adolescents who underwent thorascopic sympathectomy at the Schneider Children's Hospital of Israel. Data were validated for the procedure and analysed for outcome of procedure. Results: There were 148 patients, 66 were males and 82 were females, with a median age of 13.8 SD ± 4.0 years. Two hundred and ninety-six thoracopic sympathectomies were performed with no conversion to open procedure. The mean operation time was 18 min. Ninety-five per cent of the patients were discharged the next day with a mean hospital stay of 1.2 days. Postoperative complications included segmental atelectasis in seven (4.72%) patients, pneumothorax in two (1.35%) and transient unilateral Horner's syndrome in one (0.67%). Seventy-one (38.8%) experienced some form of compensatory hyperhidrosis. Complete relief of palmer hyperdidrosis was achieved in all patients (mean follow-up = 5.03 ± 1.76 years). The outcome was very satisfactory in 91 (61.5%) and satisfactory in 48 (32.4%). Only nine (6.1%) were not satisfied with the outcome. Conclusion: Thorascopic sympathectomy provides effective and satisfactory cure for palmer hyperhidrosis with acceptable complication rate and excellent satisfactory outcome. There is a possibility of compensatory sweating in some individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perineal hernias (pelvic floor hernias) are extremely rare occurring through defects in musculature of the pelvic floor. This report presents a successfully treated case of primary perineal hernia and takes a review of the existing literature. The case of a 14-month-old girl with a great perineal hernia is presented. Diagnosis was secured by barium enema. The pelvic defect was successfully treated by primary suture with prolene. The literature shows many different approaches for treatment of perineal hernia, such as open or laparoscopic mesh repair, and perineal, abdominal or combined access in the adult, but our case like others confirms that primary closure of the hernial orifice through a perineal approach is also feasible in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Management of female phenotype XY disorders poses a series of problems for the treating clinician. Even after a series of investigations and imaging modalities, there are lingering doubts about the exact nature of the disease and the correct management option. Optimal timing and necessity for removal of their testes have been a debated issue by physicians. There is a generally accepted opinion among physicians that the risk of malignancy in androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) is considerably lower than with other intersex disorders and occurs at a later age. Objective: The highlight of this presentation is to reinforce the value of laparoscopic gonadectomy in management of AIS in correlation with data suggesting higher risk of malignancy. Patients and Methods: A retrospective review of 11 phenotypic females with XY karyotype was carried out. The patients were evaluated by a diagnostic protocol which included clinical, hormonal, sonographic and cytogenetic examinations. Patients/parents were counselled by the team concerning the different treatment modalities and contrary to the assigned gender, laparoscopy was offered to them. Uneventful bilateral gonadectomy was performed in all the patients and gonads submitted for histopathological examination. Results: A total of 11 patients (mean age, 10.4 ± 4.1 years), including six with complete AIS and fi ve with partial AIS (PAIS) were reviewed. In two patients with PAIS (18.1%), histopathology revealed malignancy (bilateral seminoma and gonadoblastoma) and in an additional patient, a benign hamartoma was found. Literature evidence suggests that AIS female phenotype patients retaining their testes through puberty have a 5% chance for developing malignant tumours. Reviewing our results in correlation with literature, we found that PAIS patients may harbour a higher risk of malignancy. Conclusions: In complementation to hormonal tests and cytogenetic techniques, laparoscopic gonadectomy is required to complete the diagnostic work up for AIS as it also adds a fi nal therapeutic approach with low risk and huge benefi t. Since laparoscopy is now a well-tolerated and widely accepted gold standard, it should be included in routine management for patients with AIS. Risk of malignancy in PAIS should be investigated in larger cohort of these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background/Purpose: The serial transverse enteroplasty (STEP) procedure appears beneficial clinically, but the mechanism(s) underlying these effects remains unclear. The present study evaluated the nutritional, hormonal, and morphologic effects of the STEP procedure in a rodent model of short bowel syndrome. Methods: With institutional animal care ethics approval, Sprague-Dawley rats underwent an 80% distal bowel resection, anastomosing the 30 cm remnant of jejunum to the ascending colon; at day 14, animals were randomly assigned to control or a STEP procedure (n = 8/group). Animals were pair-fed with normal chow; after a further 3 weeks, intestinal transit, hormonal and metabolic balance studies were done, and intestinal tissues were taken for analysis. Results: The STEP group had increased weight gain (resected: −0.34% ± 2.9% vs STEP: 2.5% ± 1.5%), increased bowel length (34.1 ± 1.5 vs 36.9 ± 2.2 cm), increased jejunal villus height (555 ± 59 vs 635 ± 65 μm), decreased rates of crypt cell apoptosis, increased expression of mRNA for the GLP-2 receptor, and increased postprandial production of glucagon-like peptide 2 (45 ± 14 vs 65 ± 12 pmol/L) (P < .05 by Student t test). There were no differences in intestinal transit; absorption of total calories, protein, fat, or carbohydrate; crypt cell proliferation rates; or the expression of intestinal transporter proteins (SGLT-1, GLUT-2, and GLUT-5). Conclusions: The STEP procedure improves weight gain and augments gross and microscopic intestinal morphology in severe experimental short bowel syndrome. Postprandial GLP-2 levels are increased, as is the expression of the GLP-2 receptor; these mechanisms may contribute to these metabolic effects and may be useful in guiding the use of the STEP procedure clinically. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: The “Nuss” procedure for repair of pectus excavatum is performed with increasing frequency worldwide. We describe a technique of performing relaxing or “kerf” incisions along the cartilaginous ribs at the point of maximal chest wall concavity to facilitate retrosternal dissection and to reduce chest wall tension. The effects on operative parameters and long-term changes in cardiopulmonary function and appearance were evaluated prospectively. Methods: Thirty patients underwent a Nuss procedure for the period from 2001 to 2004. Fifteen patients underwent a modified Nuss (MN) with sternocostal “relaxing” incisions, and these were compared to 15 patients undergoing a standard Nuss (SN). Data were prospectively gathered and included the number of relaxing incisions, bar number, blood loss, duration of epidural analgesia, number of days to discharge, and preoperative and postoperative cardiopulmonary function measures. Results: The average Haller index of the SN group was 3.9 ± 0.7 vs MN group index of 4.6 ± 1.6 (P < .05). The median number of relaxing incisions in the study group was 4.0 ± 0.7 (range 3 - 8). There were no significant differences between the study groups in any of the operative parameters analyzed, including blood loss, days of epidural requirements or days to reach functional independence. Nor were there differences in the improvement in subjective appearance, complications, pulmonary function, cardiac output at rest, oxygen transport or minute ventilation at maximal exercise. Subjectively, bar positioning and the intraoperative visualization was easier with the relaxing incisions. Conclusions: The addition of sternocostal relaxing incisions to the standard Nuss procedure appears to facilitate retrosternal dissection and bar placement, but no changes in long-term function or cosmesis were noted. The use of relaxing incisions appears to be safe and may facilitate operative visualization of retrosternal structures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: In childhood and adolescence, fecal soiling represents a psychologically devastating problem. Physical and emotional distress associated with daily rectal enemas is minimized by the introduction of a cecostomy tube for colonic cleansing with antegrade colonic enemas (ACEs). Patients and Methods: Over a period of 10 years (1997-2007), we performed “button” cecostomies in 69 pediatric patients with fecal soiling secondary to a variety of disorders; laparoscopic procedures were performed in 40 and open procedures in 29. Mean postoperative follow-up was 4.03 SD ± 1.76 years. Cleansing protocols differed between patients. Results: We adopted a standardized questionnaire concerning management of incontinence/intractable constipation before and after button cecostomy insertion to assess the long-term impact of ACE on symptom severity and quality of life. Complications included tube dislodgement (n = 9), development of granulation tissue (n = 11), decubitus ulcer (n = 5), and infection (n = 3). Patient/parents satisfaction (appraisal scale 1-3) and improvement of quality of life achieved statistical significance for both (P < .001). Conclusions: Since button cecostomy and ACE were introduced in our institution as a management option, the treatment of fecal incontinence and intractable constipation significantly improved in terms of efficacy and patient compliance and also resulted in greater patient and parent satisfaction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Surgery for pheochromocytoma differs from that of other tumors owing to the potential release of catecholamines, which may lead to severe intraoperative hemodynamic changes. The present standard of care for resection of adrenal pheochromocytoma has become a laparoscopic approach for surgical excision. Extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma is a very rare entity, especially in the pediatric age group; the utility of the laparoscopic approach is not established in this population. We present a case report of a child with hormonally active extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma originating in the organ of Zuckerkandl that was resected laparoscopically. We found the laparoscopic approach gave excellent exposure, allowing for proper identification of the tumor''s origin and its relation to surrounding structures; a complete resection with excellent control of the feeding blood vessels was performed. Herein we present the details of this case and a review of the relevant literature. After our initial experience we can recommend laparoscopic exploration for similar cases of suspected extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma as an appropriate tool to identify extension of the disease and estimate resectability. Proper patient preparation and monitoring are critical for success. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Standard modalities to assist in determining the extent of chest wall developmental deformities in patients include x-ray and computed tomography (CT). The purpose of this study is to describe an optical imaging technique that provides accurate cross-sectional images of the chest, and to compare these with standard CT-derived images of chest wall abnormalities. Patients and Methods: Ten patients (5 pectus excavatum and 5 pectus carinatum) underwent imaging that included limited CT and optical cross-sectional imaging. Severity indices of the deformity using the standard Haller index (HI) were calculated from CT scans. A similar severity measurement of deformity was derived from the outline of torso cross sections (ie, from skin to skin measurements) obtained from optical images. To assess the severity of carinatum defects, a modified pectus index was derived, which measures the anterior chest protrusion from the central chord of the chest cross section. We performed regression analyses, comparing the indices obtained from CT and optical imaging methodologies. Results: Optical measures of cross-sectional deformities correlated well with standard HI (r 2 = 0.94) and even better with the modified pectus index (r 2 = 0.96). Adaptation of the HI for pectus carinatum deformity evaluation was effective, and consistent with the torso surface deformity measures. Conclusions: Torso models from optical imaging offer 3-D images of the chest wall deformity with no radiation exposure. This preliminary study showed promising results for the use of torso surface measurement as an alternative index of pectus deformities; if validated in larger studies, these measures may be useful for following chest wall abnormalities, using repeated studies in patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: The optimal treatment of pectus carinatum (PC) deformities is unclear. We propose a nonoperative approach using a lightweight, patient-controlled dynamic chest-bracing device. Material and Methods: With ethical approval, 24 patients with PC were treated at the Alberta Children''s Hospital between January 1998 and April 2005. There were 6 (25%) females and 18 (75%) males, with a mean age of 12.9 years at the onset of treatment. Treatment involved fitting of a lightweight, patient-controlled chest brace, worn for 23 hours per day (correction phase [CP]) until the convex deformity was corrected. Following correction of the deformity, bracing was reduced to 8 hours per day (maintenance phase) until axial skeletal maturation ceased. Monitoring was done by measurement of the external pectus carinatum protrusion as well as subjective patient and surgeon appraisal of appearance and exercise tolerance. Results: Nineteen (79.2%) patients have completed initial treatment (mean CP time, 4.3 ± 2.1 months). There were 3 patients (12.5%) who were noncompliant, and 2 (8.3%) are still in the initial CP phase of therapy. Fourteen (58.3%) patients are presently in maintenance phase, nocturnally braced, and 2 (8.3%) have completed therapy. In patients completing initial treatment, the protrusion pectus carinatum protrusion (pre 22 ± 6 vs post 6.0 ± 6.2) and subjective appearance (change + 1.8±0.4) showed a significant improvement (P < .001 for both) with no change in exercise tolerance. Conclusion: Compressive bracing results in a significant subjective and objective improvement in PC appearance in skeletally immature patients. However, patient compliance and diligent follow up appear to be paramount for the success of this method of treatment. Further studies are required to show the durability of this method of treatment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Conservative treatment of postoperative small bowel obstruction in children is widely accepted, provided that there are no clinical signs of bowel strangulation. However, the length of time surgery can be safely deferred remains unclear. Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the time limit for observant management of postoperative small bowel obstruction. Methods: The medical records of 128 children with 174 episodes of postoperative small bowel obstruction were reviewed. Results: Spontaneous resolution occurred in 63% of cases, 85% within 48 hours of admission. Bowel compromise was noted in 31% of the operated cases, and about half of them underwent bowel resection, accounting for 6% of all admissions. None of the cases treated surgically within 16 hours of admission was associated with bowel strangulation or need for resection. Conclusions: In children presenting with postoperative small bowel obstruction, prolonging observant treatment for more than 48 hours yields only a small benefit in terms of spontaneous resolution. Bowel strangulation can occur within 16 hours of admission. On the basis of these findings, we suggest raising the index of suspicion for compromised bowel after 16 hours and making the decision for surgery at around 48 hours. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Aggressive chemotherapy/radiotherapy for cancer may cause gonadal failure in young female survivors. The putative aim of ovarian tissue cryopreservation is to restore fertility by transplantation of a patient''s frozen-thawed ovarian tissue or, further into the future, by in vitro maturation of frozen-thawed oocytes followed by in vitro fertilization. This report presents our early experience with ovarian tissue preservation in young patients. Methods: We conducted a database review of the techniques and outcomes of the ethics board–approved ovarian tissue cryopreservation procedures performed at our center since 1998 for young girls with malignancy. Results: The study group included 23 patients (median age = 14 years) with various types of cancer (hematologic, bone, ovarian, or intracranial); 11 patients were scheduled for chemotherapy, 11 patients had already undergone some form of chemotherapy before the ovarian tissue harvesting, and 1 patient was not scheduled for chemotherapy. Ten underwent bone marrow transplantation after tissue retrieval. Twenty-one patients underwent laparoscopic harvesting of their ovarian tissue. In the other 2 patients, the ovary was preserved during inguinal hernia repair or tissue was obtained at laparotomy for a pelvic tumor. All patients had benign operative and postoperative courses. Conclusions: Laparoscopy for ovarian tissue retrieval for cryopreservation is safe in young cancer patients. Based on reports of successful cryopreservation of human ovarian tissue containing primordial follicles, we believe that this approach holds promise for female cancer survivors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Presents a case report of pancreatic sarcoidosis mimicking a malignant tumor. Overview of sarcoidosis; Possibility of finding microscopic involvement of the pancreas without any clinical signs in patients with generalized sarcoidosis; Importance of ruling out the presence of a neoplasm.

Abstract: Splenosis is usually a sequel of splenic rupture from abdominal trauma but can be associated with elective splenectomy. Recurrence of the hematological disorder for which the patient underwent splenectomy may occur, and splenic nodules can be found anywhere in the thoracic or abdominal cavity, as well as subcutaneously. We are presenting intramural colonic splenosis, a large inoculum of the splenic tissue that has been found to have the capacity to maintain anemia and thrombocytopenia, in a child previously splenectomized because of a hematological problem. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We depict an uncommon presentation of rubber toy ingestion which remained impacted in the esophagus for months, gradually eroding the mucosa, and ultimately causing a traumatic acquired tracheoesophageal fistula., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: ChatGPT has demonstrated notable capabilities and has gained popularity in various medical tasks, including patient education. This study evaluates the content and readability of ChatGPT's responses to parents' questions about congenital anomalies., Methods: Information on four congenital anomalies (congenital diaphragmatic hernia, esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula, anorectal malformation, and gastroschisis) was assessed. Seven questions frequently asked by parents were posed for each anomaly, and responses generated by GPT-4 were compared to online information sheets from three top pediatric medical centers. Two senior pediatric surgeons, blinded to the source, evaluated the answers based on accuracy, comprehensiveness, and conciseness. Reading time and readability of the answers were also assessed., Results: ChatGPT answered all 28 questions, while online information sheets varied in completeness. ChatGPT's responses were rated significantly higher regarding full accuracy, comprehensiveness, and conciseness compared to the online information sheets (p < 0.00001, <0.00001, 0.0002, respectively). Despite having longer reading times and more challenging to read, ChatGPT's responses were more precise and detailed., Conclusions: ChatGPT outperforms online information sheets in providing accurate, comprehensive, and concise answers about congenital anomalies. This positions ChatGPT as a beneficial supplementary resource in pediatric healthcare. Future research should explore real-world applications and usability among parents., Level of Evidence: Level III., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest The authors have no relevant financial or non-financial interests to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)