Journal of pediatric surgery
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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.
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We compare radiation exposure from body CT imaging for blunt trauma performed at outside hospitals (OH) versus our children's hospital (CH). ⋯ Children receive significantly less radiation exposure with body CT imaging for blunt trauma when performed at our dedicated CH. CT scans were significantly more likely to be ordered with appropriate contrast at our CH.
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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.