European journal of pediatric surgery : official journal of Austrian Association of Pediatric Surgery ... [et al] = Zeitschrift für Kinderchirurgie
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Data on the feasibility and effects of single lung ventilation (SLV) in children are scarce. We conducted a retrospective study on the feasibility of SLV during video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) in children and adolescents undergoing major thoracic procedures. ⋯ SLV is feasible in children and adolescents undergoing VATS for a broad spectrum of procedures. However, despite SLV, the conversion rate in our series was 15%. The main reason for conversion was problems with exposure of the operative field. The complication rate for SLV was low. Atelectasis developed in every fourth patient but usually resolved spontaneously, and intervention to achieve ventilation was rarely indicated.
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To describe our results of laparoscopic transperitoneal division of the hernia sac with purse string closure of the proximal peritoneum for inguinal hernia repair in children. ⋯ Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair with transperitoneal division of the hernia sac and purse string closure of the proximal peritoneum allows for a minimally invasive option for pediatric inguinal hernia repair that mimics open inguinal hernia repair. At medium term follow-up there have been no recurrences to date, high parent satisfaction, minimal scarring and good cosmetic results.
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Children with anterior mediastinal masses are at risk for life-threatening airway compromise during anesthesia, and can present a diagnostic and management challenge for pediatric surgeons. ⋯ Anterior mediastinal masses in children should be approached in a step-wise fashion with multi-disciplinary involvement, starting with the least invasive techniques and progressing cautiously. The surgeon should have a well-defined and preoperatively established contingency plan if these children require general anesthesia for diagnosis.
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Single port surgery (SPS) has been demonstrated to have some advantages over conventional laparoscopy. However, currently available port sizes may limit the application in younger children or those with a small umbilicus. Moreover, the consultant learning curve required to master single port surgery may have a negative impact on surgical training. We report the first series of children who were treated with a reduced incision technique for appendicectomy using flexible-tip laparo-endoscopic surgery (FLES). ⋯ FLES is an alternative to standard laparoscopy and SPS in children, and be performed effectively and safely by junior trainees. Cosmetic results are excellent. It may represent a bridge technology, particularly for younger children, until single port products and techniques more suitable for appendicectomy in this age group are available. Finally, flexible-tip technology may play a useful role as SPS evolves.
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There has been a shift from operative treatment (OT) to non-operative treatment (NOT) of splenic injury. We evaluated the outcomes of treatment of pediatric patients with blunt splenic trauma in our hospital, with special focus on the outcomes after NOT. ⋯ Splenic injury in children is associated with substantial mortality. This is due to concomitant injuries and not to the splenic injury. Non-operative treatment is increasingly preferred to operative procedures when treating splenic injuries in hemodynamically, stable children. ICU and hospital stay have, despite the change from OT to NOT, remained the same. Complications after NOT are rare. We are still observing children in hospital for a longer period than is necessary.