Journal of paediatrics and child health
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J Paediatr Child Health · Mar 2014
ReviewFetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) for congenital diaphragmatic hernia in Australia and New Zealand: are we willing, able, both or neither?
An estimated 140 pregnancies are diagnosed with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) in Australia and New Zealand each year, with these fetuses having a less than even chance of 1-year survival. Fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) is a relatively new technique that offers a prenatal interventional strategy for selective cases of CDH. This is not routinely offered in Australia or New Zealand. The aim of this systematic review is to critically appraise controlled clinical trials investigating the role of FETO in moderate and severe isolated CDH and explore whether this treatment is justified within our region. ⋯ Until recently, evidence to support a role for FETO in prenatal CDH management was weak. Recently reported and ongoing controlled trials give cause for optimism, with improved FETO safety and increased survival reported for severe CDH cases. Should Australasia embrace FETO for selected CDH cases, a co-ordinated, evidence-informed service should be established under the guidance of experienced international partnerships.
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J Paediatr Child Health · Mar 2014
Comparative StudyNorth-South divide: distribution and outcome of respiratory viral infections in paediatric intensive care units in Cape Town (South Africa) and Nottingham (United Kingdom).
This study aims to describe and compare the spectrum, course, seasonality and outcome of children with virus-associated respiratory symptoms (VARS) admitted to two paediatric intensive care units (PICUs) in the United Kingdom (UK) and South Africa (SA). ⋯ The outcome of children with VARS was worse in SA compared with the UK PICU. Nosocomial VARS was highlighted as an important concern and requires further investigation.