Journal of pediatric surgery
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The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between time from diagnosis to operation and surgical site infection (SSI) in children undergoing appendectomy. ⋯ We found no significant increase in the risk of SSI related to delay in appendectomy. A future multi-institutional study is planned to confirm these results.
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While bicycle helmet use reduces bicycle-related head injury, few children wear them regularly. We aimed to describe racial/ethnic and socioeconomic differences in pediatric helmet use in Los Angeles County (LAC) to help target groups for injury prevention programs. ⋯ Nearly 90% of children involved in bicycle-related accidents were not wearing helmets. Helmet use was lower among older children, minorities, and those from a low socioeconomic status. Injury prevention programs targeting low-income middle and high schools and minority communities may help increase helmet use in children in LAC.
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Review Meta Analysis
Epidural analgesia versus intravenous patient-controlled analgesia following minimally invasive pectus excavatum repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
The minimally invasive pectus excavatum repair (MIPER) is a painful procedure. The ideal approach to postoperative analgesia is debated. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of epidural analgesia compared to intravenous Patient Controlled Analgesia (PCA) following MIPER. ⋯ Epidural analgesia may provide superior pain control but was comparable with PCA for secondary outcomes. Better designed studies are needed. Currently the analgesic technique should be based on patient preference and institutional resources.
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Longer wait time for infant inguinal hernia (IH) repair is associated with higher complication rates. We wished to determine if socioeconomic and demographic factors influence wait times for IH repair. ⋯ Wait times for IH repair were appropriately influenced by medical risk factors. Income and distance to hospital did not appear to influence wait times. A population-based study is needed to determine if these findings reflect a general trend within the Canadian health care system.
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A uniquely Ugandan method of holding surgical "camps" has been one means to deal with the volume of patients needing surgery and provides opportunities for global partnership. ⋯ Pediatric Surgical Camps founded on global partnerships with goals of service, education, and collaboration can be one way forward to improve pediatric surgery access and expertise globally.