Journal of pediatric surgery
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Reported outcomes of neonatal surgery in low-income countries (LICs) are poor. We examined epidemiology, outcomes, and met and unmet need of neonatal surgical diseases in Uganda. ⋯ More than two thirds of surgical neonates survived despite late presentation and lack of critical care. Epidemiology and outcomes differ greatly with HICs. A high burden of hidden mortality exists, and only a negligible fraction of the population need for neonatal surgery is met by health services.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Single shot intercostal block for pain management in pediatric patients undergoing the Nuss procedure: a double-blind, randomized, controlled study.
The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a single shot intercostal block for pain control in pediatric patients undergoing the Nuss procedure. ⋯ A single shot IB is an effective additional treatment for pediatric patients undergoing the Nuss procedure and results in the reduced consumption of morphine, less postoperative pain, and fewer opioid-related adverse effects.
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Comparative Study
Long-gap oesophageal atresia: comparison of delayed primary anastomosis and oesophageal replacement with gastric tube.
Long-gap oesophageal atresia (LGOA) causes significant early and long-term morbidity. We conducted a retrospective 25-year review comparing outcomes of delayed primary anastomosis versus oesophageal replacement with greater curvature gastric tube. ⋯ Our experience indicates that LGOA can be repaired safely using both methods, with no deaths and similar perioperative risk, but high long-term morbidity mandates long-term follow-up of these patients. Delayed primary anastomosis has a better long-term outcome compared to oesophageal replacement with gastric tube.
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Excessive crystalloid resuscitation of blunt injured adults is deleterious. We hypothesize that children, unlike adults, are resistant to the adverse effects of high volume resuscitation. ⋯ Excessive crystalloid resuscitation was associated with increased hospital LOS and need for mechanical ventilation. Increased rates of other complications including ARDS, ACS, and MOF were not observed. Injured children appear relatively resistant to some of the adverse effects of early high volume fluid resuscitation.
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Observational Study
Impact of newly adopted guidelines for management of children with isolated skull fracture.
In an effort to standardize practices and reduce unnecessary hospital resource utilization, we implemented guidelines for management of patients with isolated skull fractures (ISF). We sought to examine the impact of these guidelines. ⋯ Implementation of a new guideline for management of ISF resulted in a reduction of admissions without compromising patient safety. Young age remains a common concern for practitioners despite not being a criterion for admission. Interhospital transfer may be unnecessary in many cases.