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Given the perceived technical demands of laparoscopic appendectomy and the expected postoperative morbidity in patients with a well-defined abscess, initial percutaneous drainage has become an attractive option in this patient population. This strategy allows for a laparoscopic appendectomy to be performed in an elective manner at the convenience of the surgeon. However, the medical burden on the patient and on the quality of patient outcomes has not been described in the literature. Therefore, we audited our experience with initial percutaneous drainage followed by laparoscopic interval appendectomy to evaluate the need for a prospective trial.After institutional review board approval, a retrospective chart review was performed on all children who presented with perforated appendicitis and a well-defined abscess and were treated by initial percutaneous aspiration/drainage followed by interval appendectomy between January 2000 and September 2006. Continuous variables are listed with standard deviation.There were 52 patients with a mean age of 9.0 +/- 3.9 years and weight of 34.4 +/- 18.8 kg. The mean duration of symptoms at presentation was 8.4 +/- 7.6 days. Percutaneous aspiration only was performed in 2 patients. The mean volume of fluid on initial aspiration/drain placement was 76.3 +/- 81.1 mL. The mean time to appendectomy was 61.9 +/- 25.2 days. The laparoscopic approach was used in 49 patients (94.2%), of which one was converted to an open operation. The mean length of hospitalization after interval appendectomy was 1.4 +/- 1.4 days. A recurrent abscess developed in 17.3% of the patients. Six patients (11.5%) required another drainage procedure. The mean total charge to the patients was $40,414.02. There were 4 significant drain complications (ileal perforation, colon perforation, bladder perforation, and buttock/thigh necrotizing abscess). The child with the ileal perforation after drain placement is the only patient who failed initial nonoperative therapy.The use of initial percutaneous aspiration/drainage of periappendiceal abscess followed by interval appendectomy is an effective approach. However, this management poses complication risks and uses considerable resources. Therefore, this strategy should be compared with early operation in a prospective trial.

Appendicitis is the most common emergency condition in children. Historically, a 3-drug regimen consisting of ampicillin, gentamicin, and clindamycin (AGC) has been used postoperatively for perforated appendicitis. A retrospective review at our institution has found single day dosing of ceftriaxone and metronidazole (CM) to be a more simple and cost-effective antibiotic strategy. Therefore, we performed a prospective, randomized trial to compare efficacy and cost-effectiveness of these 2 regimens.After internal review board approval (IRB no. 04 12-149), children found to have perforated appendicitis at appendectomy were randomized to either once daily dosing of CM (2 total doses per day) or standard dosing of AGC (11 total doses per day). Perforation was defined as an identifiable hole in the appendix. The operative approach (laparoscopic), length of antibiotic use, and criteria for discharge were standardized for the groups. Based on our retrospective analysis using length of postoperative hospitalization as a primary end point, a sample size of 100 patients was calculated for an alpha of .5 and a power of 0.82.One hundred patients underwent laparoscopic appendectomy for perforated appendicitis. On presentation, there were no differences in sex distribution, days of symptoms, temperature, or leukocyte count. There was no difference in abscess rate or wound infections between groups. The CM group resulted in significantly less antibiotic charges then the AGC group.Once daily dosing with the 2-drug regimen (CM) offers a more efficient, cost-effective antibiotic management in children with perforated appendicitis without compromising infection control when compared to a traditional 3-drug regimen.

Background Blood product utilization is an important issue in health care, given the frequent shortages in hospitals and the societal burden required to maintain the supply. Therefore, we retrospectively audited our blunt spleen/liver trauma experience to determine the percentage of cross-matched blood that was transfused to see whether more stringent typing criteria should be applied. Methods A retrospective analysis of a recent 7-year experience with nonoperative management in patients with blunt spleen or liver injury was performed. Demographics, packed red blood cells prepared by cross-match, and transfusions were measured. Unmatched, O-type blood given in the trauma bay was excluded. Patients undergoing laparotomy for solid organ injury were excluded. Data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Results During the study period, 130 patients were nonoperatively managed for spleen and/or liver injury. Mean age was 8.7 ± 4.6 years, and 62% were male. The mean grade of injury was 2.4 ± 0.9. A total of 187 units of packed red blood cells was ordered in 60 patients. A total of 46.5 units was administered to 22 patients, revealing a 24.9% transfusion rate for the units ordered in 36.7% of the patients for whom it was ordered. When patients with other major injuries and those with ongoing bleeding requiring an operation or who clinically required blood on presentation were excluded, there were 80 patients. In this stable population, 104 units of PRBCs were ordered for 29 patients. A total of 18 units was then transfused in 5 patients, for a 17.3% transfusion rate for the units orders in 17.2% of the patients for whom it was ordered. None of the 5 patients received transfusion the day of admission. Conclusion Hemodynamically stable patients with blunt spleen/liver injury triaged to conservative management should have their blood typed and be monitored closely for signs or laboratory values that would mandate a cross-match. According to our data, this strategy would safely improve utilization of blood bank resources.

Postoperative portable chest films are routinely performed after fluoroscopic placement of central venous catheters to evaluate positioning and to rule out significant complications (eg, pneumothorax). Emerging evidence in the literature has called this practice into question suggesting that routine postoperative chest x-ray is unnecessary. Therefore, we investigated our recent experience to examine the utility of these films, to examine the development of symptoms relative to therapeutic intervention, and to report a cost-benefit analysis.After obtaining institutional review board approval, all charts of patients undergoing central venous catheter placement from January 2004 to December 2005 at our institution were reviewed. Outcome measures included whether or not there was a complication and whether or not that complication required an intervention. Peripherally inserted central catheters were not included.In the study population, 237 catheters were placed in the operating room. There were two complications, both pneumothoraces (0.085%). One patient required tube thoracostomy, whereas the other was asymptomatic and the pneumothorax resolved spontaneously. Fourteen patients had no postoperative chest film without adverse consequences. Total cost for portable chest films was $56,196.For catheters placed under fluoroscopic guidance, postoperative chest films in asymptomatic patients add unnecessary cost. For this reason, we feel discontinuation of postoperative chest films in asymptomatic patients undergoing catheter placement with fluoroscopy is justifiable.

Pectus excavatum is the most common chest wall deformity seen in the pediatric population. There have been a number of reports describing the operative correction of pectus excavatum, but scant literature is available describing removal of the substernal bar. This report describes a straightforward technique for removal of the substernal bar after the Nuss operation. This technique has been used in more than 110 patients without complications.

Neonates presenting with perineal masses are uncommon. When encountered, most perineal masses are anorectal malformations, sacrococcygeal teratomas, rectal prolapse, or duplication cysts. We present an otherwise healthy newborn with a patent anal canal and a pedunculated anal mass. The mass was initially believed to be a prolapsed rectal duplication cyst. Further evaluation for concomitant congenital abnormalities was negative. The patient underwent mass excision at the bedside under local anesthesia. Histopathologic evaluation revealed benign hamartoma. This case is presented because of its rarity, unique presentation, and simplicity of management.

Background/Purpose: In fetuses with congenital cystic adenomatoid malformations of the lung (CCAMs), hydrops fetalis and large masses are associated with poor outcomes. This study attempts to (1) determine sonographic features (in addition to large size) that correlate with hydrops and (2) characterize the features that correlate with outcome among hydropic fetuses. Method: Charts and sonograms of fetuses with large, unilateral CCAMs were retrospectively reviewed. Mass features evaluated included laterality, macrocystic/microcystic, cystic/solid predominance, degree of mediastinal shift, retrocardiac component, diaphragm eversion, polyhydramnios, and mass-thorax ratio (MTR). Features of hydrops included degree of ascites, scalp and integumentary edema, pleural/ pericardial effusion, and placentomegaly. Results: Thirty-six fetuses with large CCAMs were studied: 27 with and 9 without hydrops. Three sonographic features were significantly associated with hydrops: MTR of at least 0.56, cystic predominance of mass, and eversion of hemidiaphragm. Of 27 fetuses with hydrops, 10 (37%) demonstrated all 3 features compared with none in those without hydrops (P = .04). All 9 nonhydropic fetuses were expectantly managed, and 100% survived. In the hydropic group, none of the expectantly managed fetuses survived, and 10 (43%) of the 21 fetuses who underwent fetal intervention survived. Conclusion: Three features of large CCAMs were significantly associated with hydrops: MTR, cystic predominance, and diaphragm eversion. Identification of these features will allow clinicians to accurately predict which fetuses may warrant closer follow-up and possible treatment.

Objective: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is cited by many to be a common cause of apparent life-threatening events (ALTEs). However, there are few reports in the literature regarding the surgical treatment of GERD to prevent a recurrent ALTE. Methods: A retrospective review of infants undergoing fundoplication between 2000 and 2005 for the prevention of another ALTE was undertaken. Preoperative, operative, and postoperative data as well as follow-up information were collected. Results: During the study period, 81 patients underwent fundoplication after presenting with an ALTE. All but 3 patients (96.3%) had been treated with antireflux medication. Moreover, 71 infants (87.7%) were taking antireflux medication at the time of their ALTE. A significant number of infants (77.8%) were hospitalized with a second ALTE before referral for fundoplication. After fundoplication, only 3 patients (3.7%) experienced a recurrent ALTE during the follow-up period; 2 required a second fundoplication and 1 underwent pyloromyotomy. None of these 3 patients have experienced a recurrent ALTE after the second operation. The median follow-up has been 1738 days. Conclusion: Our data suggest that among patients who had an ALTE and are found to have GERD, fundoplication appears to be an effective method for preventing recurrent ALTE.

Bronchopleural fistula can be a devastating complication of pulmonary resections. Treatment options are often limited and carry significant morbidity or mortality, or both. We present a case of bronchopleural fistula occurring after pulmonary lobectomy for aspergilloma in a patient with recurrent acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The bronchopleural fistula was treated using bronchoscopic obliteration with Tisseel VH Fibrin Sealant (Baxter Healthcare Corp, Westlake Village, CA) and small intestinal submucosa with complete resolution and no morbidity. The relevant literature is reviewed.

The VACTERL complex refers to anomalies of the bony spinal column (V), atresias in the gastrointestinal tract (A), congenital heart lesions (C), tracheoesophageal defects (TE), renal and distal urinary tract anomalies (R) and limb lesions (L). The incidence of each of these components has not been precisely quantified in the recent literature and the full array of anomalies within each systemic class of the VACTERL complex has not been well described. Therefore, we reviewed our most recent 20-year experience of patients born with esophageal atresia to comprehensively delineate and accurately describe the type and incidence of associated lesions. A retrospective review was then conducted on all patients diagnosed with esophageal atresia between 1985 and 2005. Patient demographics recorded included gestational age, weight and gender. The specific types of lesions were carefully cataloged. The outcome measure recorded was survival. One hundred and twelve patients were diagnosed with esophageal atresia were identified during the study period. The gestational age range was 28–41 weeks with an average of 36.5 weeks. Average birth weight was 2,557 g (range 1,107–3,890). A male predominance was seen with 62 males and 50 females. The overall survival was 92.9%. The categorical breakdown of anomalies were vertebral (24.1%), atresia (14.3%), cardiac (32.1%), tracheoesophageal fistula (95.5%), urinary (17.0%), skeletal (16.1%) and other (10.8%). VACTERL anomalies are common in patients with esophageal atresia, however, they appear to have little impact on overall survival.

Background Literature on congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) over the past few decades has focused on prognostic factors and management of pulmonary hypertension/hypoplasia. Larger diaphragmatic defects may require patch closure, reported by some authors to be associated with poorer outcomes. In this study, we evaluate the impact synthetic material has on the need for subsequent abdominal operations, particularly recurrence and small bowel obstruction (SBO). Methods After obtaining IRB approval, all patients undergoing repair of congenital diaphragmatic from January, 1994 to December, 2004 were investigated. Records from primary and subsequent admissions were reviewed to identify those patients who underwent major procedures after repair of the diaphragmatic defect. Subsequent abdominal operations in these series were recurrent CDH repair, exploration for SBO and fundoplication. Patients who died prior to hospital discharge were excluded. Statistical comparisons were made using Fisher’s exact test: significance was defined as P Results During the study period, there were 81 survivors from CDH repair, 24 with a synthetic patch, and 57 without. Those with a patch repair had a significantly increased risk of recurrence, small bowel obstruction, and subsequent operation ( Table 1 ). Eleven patients had nonabsorbable mesh patches, and 13 were repaired with absorbable (Surgisis-Gold; Cook Technology Inc., West Lafayette, IN). While there were no differences in recurrence between these two groups, four patients (31%) with Surgisis developed SBO compared with one patient (9%) repaired with a nonabsorbable synthetic. Conclusions Incidence of SBO and recurrent CDH in patients with a patch was higher than those who underwent primary repair. There may also be a difference in the rate of subsequent SBO depending on the type of mesh used. A prospective trial is under way at our institution to help define this issue.

Laparoscopic repair of duodenal atresia has been reported. Reports to date have indicated use of standard laparoscopic suturing and knot tying. Unfortunately, there has been a high leak rate associated with the technique. We report our technique of using U-clips for the duodenoduodenostomy, thus limiting trauma to the duodenum during the anastomosis and less risk for postoperative leakage.

The increasing use of routine prenatal imaging and diagnosis has provided a better understanding of the natural history of obstructive uropathy. Fortunately, most disorders portend little clinical significance prenatally, although a select subset can incur irreversible renal injury and pulmonary hypoplasia depending on the onset, duration, severity, and level of obstruction. In these cases, timely antenatal evaluation and prenatal intervention can provide an optimal postnatal outcome. The natural history, evaluation, and management of fetal obstructive uropathies are discussed.

This study was designed to assess the outcome and financial costs incurred for the treatment of gastroschisis.A retrospective analysis was conducted of all patients with gastroschisis at a single institution over the past decade (n = 69). Hospital costs were determined and standardized to December 2001 dollars.Of the 69 patients, average gestational age at delivery was 35.9 weeks. Thirty-six patients had a primary fascial closure; 33 had a silo placed. The mean time to first feeding was 22 days and full feeding, 33 days. Average length of stay was 47 days. There were 3 deaths (2 shortly after birth, and one 131 days later owing to sepsis). The average cost of hospitalization and physician fees for patients with gastroschisis was $123,200. Using multivariate regression analysis, significant variables (P.05) associated with cost of hospitalization were number of operative procedures, ventilatory days, male gender, and length of stay. Room expenses (43%), physician fees (15%), respiratory and pulmonary care (10%), and supply and devices (10%) made up the majority of costs.Cost of care associated with treatment for gastroschisis is high. Strategies designed to reduce cost must limit gastrointestinal, respiratory, and operative complications and reduce length of stay.

Background/Purpose: Nonimmune hydrops in the fetus is a finding that often portends death. The association and prognosis of fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and hydrops is not known. Methods: A retrospective review of all prenatally diagnosed cases and referrals of CDH was performed. Variables analyzed included gestational age at diagnosis and delivery, side of hernia, presence of associated anomalies and hydrops, and neonatal outcome. Results: Since 1993, 474 prenatal referrals for CDH have been made. One hundred seventy-five were evaluated; 15 fetuses had hydrops (9%). Five patients had CDH, hydrops, and associated lethal anomalies. In the remaining 10 patients, 6 of the diaphragmatic defects were right-sided and 4 were left-sided. All except one had a major portion of the liver herniated into the chest. Six fetuses had prenatal intervention. Five neonates died shortly after birth. There were 5 long-term survivors; all received prenatal intervention. Conclusions: The association of CDH and hydrops is rare but often results in fatality. Hydrops appears to be associated with liver in the hernia, right-sided lesions, and lethal anomalies. Fetal intervention can be performed successfully in patients with CDH and hydrops, and may improve long-term survival rate in this group. J Pediatr Surg 37:1678-1680. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.

Objective: Acardiac/acephalic twinning is a rare anomaly in which a normal "pump" twin perfuses an acardiac twin, which results in twin reversed arterial perfusion sequence. A novel technique for selective reduction and obliteration of blood flow in the acardiac twin is described. Study Design: Thirteen consecutive cases of monochorionic twin gestation with twin reversed arterial perfusion sequence underwent selective reduction of the abnormal twin with the use of radiofrequency ablation. Under direct real-time sonographic guidance, a 3-mm (14-gauge) radiofrequency ablation needle was percutaneously inserted through the maternal abdominal wall into the intrauterine fetal abdomen at the level of the cord insertion site of the acardiac twin. Energy was applied until termination of blood flow to the acardiac fetus was documented by Doppler ultrasound scanning. Results: All 13 mothers tolerated the procedure without major complications. All 13 "pump" fetuses have been delivered. Twelve of 13 infants are alive and well. The first patient in this series was delivered at 24.4 weeks and the infant subsequently died from complications of prematurity. Average gestational age at intervention was 20.7 weeks, and the average gestational age at delivery was 36.2 weeks. Conclusion: Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive, percutaneous technique that can effectively obliterate blood supply to an acardiac twin to preserve and protect the pump twin. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;187:635-40.)

Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) are uncommon in pediatric surgical specialties and the quality of reporting is unknown. Our primary purpose was to analyze published surgical RCTs involving children to measure adherence to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines.Published RCTs from January 1, 2000 through December 31, 2009 were reviewed. The trials were evaluated for the presence of 7 CONSORT guidelines and also graded according to the Jadad scale.Two hundred and twenty-eight trials were included. Five trials met all 7 CONSORT criteria (2%) and 53 had a Jadad score of ≥3 (23%). Slightly more than 50% of all trials specified primary outcomes and25% described power calculations according to CONSORT. Adherence to CONSORT guidelines for allocation concealment, randomization description, and attrition details was even lower. There were significant differences between surgical specialties with regard to CONSORT adherence to the majority of the guidelines. Pediatric general surgery had the largest number of published RCTs. Pediatric orthopaedic surgery had the highest proportion of trials with a Jadad score ≥3 (40%).Adherence to CONSORT guidelines is low across the spectrum of children's surgical specialties, although significant differences do exist. Future RCTs in children's surgical specialties should specifically focus on areas of low adherence to reporting guidelines.

published surgical randomized trials in children Anthony Yuan-Dun Tsai, MD, Lillian S Kao, MD, MS, FACS, KuoJen Tsao, MD, FACS, Eunice Y Huang, MD, MS, FACS, Shiraz Younas, MD, Stacy T Tanaka, MD, Zengqi Lu, MS, Kevin P Lally, MD, MS, FACS, Martin L Blakely, MD, MS, FACS Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN