[PEG versus LAP: towards a safer technique for long-term enteral nutrition]. / PEG versus LAP: hacia una técnica más segura para la nutrición enteral a largo plazo.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the outcomes and complications between laparoscopic gastrostomies (LG) and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomies (PEG). METHODS: Retrospective review of 79 patients who had their gastrostomies inserted in our hospital (2010-2017). We compared surgical techniques, minor and major complications. RESULTS: A total of 24 LG (14 males) and 55 PEG (29 males) were performed. The mean age was 4.77 [0.15-15.56] years for LG and 5.37 [0.12-16.58] years for PEG. The median time of presentation of complications was 59 [2-975] days. No statistical differences were found in minor complications between both techniques; however, minor complications were more frequent in LG (54.16% in LG versus 34.55% in PEG), mainly, overgranulation and peristomal leakage. A statistically significant association was found between patients with oncological comorbidity and minor complications (p<0.05).A statistically significant association was found between major complications and PEG (4.17% in LG versus 21.82% in PEG), p=0.045. The major complications were one tube dislodgement in the LG group, and 9 Buried-Bumper syndrome, one colon interposition without perforation, one colon perforation, one omentum interposition, two tube dislodgements and one small bowel perforation in PEG group. CONCLUSIONS: Given the statistically significant association between major complications and the PEG group, being the higher frequency and severity of these complications with this technique evident; we consider the LG a safer technique. However, studies with larger number of patients and multicentric are necessary.

OBJETIVO: Comparar los resultados y las complicaciones de las gastrostomías laparoscópicas (LAP) frente a las gastrostomías endoscópicas percutáneas (PEG). MATERIAL Y METODO: Estudio retrospectivo de 79 pacientes intervenidos quirúrgicamente para la realización de una gastrostomía en nuestro centro (2010-2017). Comparamos las complicaciones menores y mayores entre ambas técnicas. RESULTADOS: Realizamos 24 LAP (14 varones) y 55 PEG (29 varones). La edad media fue de 4,77 [0,15-15,56] años en las LAP y 5,37 [0,12-16,58] años en las PEG. La mediana del tiempo de presentación de las complicaciones fue de 59 [2-975] días. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en las complicaciones menores entre ambas técnicas, sin embargo, son más frecuentes en las LAP (5,16% en LAP frente a 34,55% en PEG), siendo principalmente granulomas y fugas perigastrostomías. Encontramos asociación estadísticamente significativa entre pacientes con comorbilidad oncológica y la aparición de complicaciones menores (p<0,05), así como una asociación estadísticamente significativa entre las PEG y las complicaciones mayores (4,17% en LAP frente a 21,82% en PEG), con p=0,045. Las complicaciones mayores fueron, en las LAP un descolgamiento y en las PEG 9 síndrome de Buried-Bumper, un atrapamiento de colon sin perforación, una perforación de colon, un atrapamiento de epiplón, dos descolgamientos y una perforación de intestino delgado. CONCLUSIONES: Dada la asociación existente entre las complicaciones mayores y el grupo PEG, siendo evidente la mayor frecuencia y gravedad de estas complicaciones con esta técnica, consideramos la LAP una técnica más segura. Sin embargo, son necesarios estudios con un mayor tamaño muestral y, a ser posible, multicéntrico.

[Is there an ideal patient for transumbilical laparoscopic assisted appendectomy?] / ¿Existe el paciente ideal para la apendicectomía transumbilical asistida por laparoscopia?

OBJECTIVES: To identify the factors that lead to postoperative morbidity in acute appendicitis patients treated using a TULAA (Transumbilical laparoscopic assisted appendectomy) approach. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective review of patients treated through a TULAA approach between 2007 and 2014. Data concerning the location of the appendix, need for conversion, appendiceal abscess or perforation, surgical time and other complications were collected. Student's T test and Chi-squared test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: A total of 111 appendectomies underwent TULAA. The average operating time was 79 minutes (45-150). Nonperforated appendicitis was found in 90% of patients with 10% having perforated appendicitis or appendiceal abscess. In 35,13% of cases, additional trocars were used, usually when the appendix was in a retrocecal position (89,5%). When the appendix was found in a pelvic or ileal position, a need for extra trocars decreased to 25.9% (p< 0.05). The surgery was converted to open surgery in 6,3% of the cases. The appendix in a retrocecal position had a conversion rate of 20,8% compared to 2,3% of cases with an appendix in a pelvic location (p< 0.05). A total of 3,6% reported postoperative wound infection, possibly caused by perforation of the appendix during extraction (p< 0.05). All the perforated appendixes were considered complicated appendixes. CONCLUSIONS: The retrocecal location of the appendix is associated with the need to install additional trocars or conversion to open surgery. The TULAA approach is ideal for patients with nonperforated acute appendicitis in a pelvic or ileal location.

OBJETIVOS: Identificar los factores que influyen en la morbilidad postoperatoria en pacientes intervenidos mediante apendicectomía transumbilical asistida por laparoscopia o TULAA (transumbilical laparoscopic assisted appendectomy). MATERIAL Y METODOS: Estudio analítico retrospectivo de pacientes intervenidos mediante TULAA en nuestro centro entre 2007-2014. Se incluyeron las variables: localización del apéndice, reconversiones, tipo de apendicitis, tiempo quirúrgico y complicaciones. Se utilizó t de Student y chi-cuadrado para el análisis estadístico. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron un total de 111 apendicectomías TULAA. Tiempo quirúrgico medio 79 minutos (45-150). El 90% de pacientes tenían apendicitis simple y 10% apendicitis complicada. En 35,13% casos se utilizaron trócares adicionales, cuando el apéndice se posicionaba de forma atípica ascendió al 89,5% de casos, mientras que cuando el apéndice se encontró en posición típica este dato disminuía al 25,9% (p< 0,05). Se reconvirtió en un 6,3% de casos (20,8% apéndice en posición atípica, 2,3% apéndice en posición habitual, pp< 0,05). Se encontró un 3,6% de casos con infección de herida quirúrgica explicada por perforación iatrogénica en la maniobra de extracción del apéndice (pp< 0,05). Todas las apéndices perforadas en la maniobra de extracción se trataron de apendicitis complicadas. CONCLUSIONES: La posición anómala del apéndice se relaciona de forma significativa con la necesidad de colocación de trócares adicionales o reconversión a cirugía abierta. Consideramos la TULAA ideal en los casos de localización anterior del apéndice y en apendicitis no complicadas.

[Analysis of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis: size does matter]. / Análisis de la estenosis hipertrófica del píloro: el tamaño sí importa.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the correlation between pyloric size and evolution of patients surgically treated for infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS). PATIENTS AND METHODS: We realized a retrospective study of 109 patients undergoing IHPS in 5 years. We analyzed by χ2 test if a correlation between evolution time, age and postoperative vomiting and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and pyloric muscle thickness (group A > 4.5 mm and group B ≤ 4.5 mm) and pyloric channel length (group A ≥ 20 mm and group B < 20 mm) exists. RESULTS: There is a statistically significant correlation between longer evolution history (>48 h) and pyloric length ≥ 20 mm and between age (> 30 days) and muscle thickness > 4.5 mm (p= 0.022 and p= 0.009, respectively). Also, 38.5% of 109 patients had postoperative emesis 2 days after surgery and 13.8% had GERD for a median time of 8.27 months (1-12 months), showing that there is a statistically significant correlation (p= 0.007) between pyloric channel length ≥ 20 mm and postoperative emesis. It was not observed correlation between pyloric thickness and length and GERD. CONCLUSIONS: It has been observed that there is correlation between pyloric length ≥ 20 mm and postoperative emesis. However, it has not been observed regarding the pyloric muscle thickness. A longer preoperative evolution and age > 30 days are correlated to channel length ≥ 20 mm and muscle thickness > 4.5 mm, respectively.

OBJETIVOS: Analizar la relación entre el tamaño del píloro y la evolución de los pacientes intervenidos de estenosis hipertrófica del píloro (EHP). PACIENTES Y METODOS: Estudio retrospectivo de 109 pacientes intervenidos de EHP en 5 años. Se analiza mediante el test de ji al cuadrado si existe relación entre las horas de evolución, la edad y los vómitos y reflujo gastroesofágico (RGE) postoperatorios, con el grosor muscular pilórico (grupo A > 4,5 mm y grupo B ≤ 4,5 mm) y la longitud del canal pilórico (grupo A ≥ 20 mm y grupo B < 20 mm). RESULTADOS: Existe una relación estadísticamente significativa entre el mayor tiempo de evolución (> 48 h) y la longitud del píloro ≥ 20 mm y entre la edad (> 30 días) y el grosor muscular > 4,5 mm, con una p= 0,022 y p= 0,009, respectivamente. Asimismo, de los 109 pacientes, el 38,5% presentó algún vómito durante los 2 días posteriores a la intervención y el 13,8% presentó RGE durante un tiempo medio de 8,27 meses (1-12 meses), demostrándose que existe relación entre una longitud pilórica ≥ 20 mm y la presencia de vómitos postoperatorios, siendo estadísticamente significativo (p= 0,007). No encontramos una relación estadísticamente significativa entre el grosor y la longitud del píloro con el RGE. CONCLUSIONES: Se ha observado que existe relación entre una longitud del canal pilórico ≥ 20 mm y los vómitos postoperatorios, sin embargo, no se ha observado relación con el grosor muscular pilórico. Pese a ello, un mayor tiempo de evolución y una edad > 30 días sí están relacionados con la longitud ≥ 20 mm y el grosor muscular > 4,5 mm, respectivamente.

[The diagnosis of pilomatrixoma in children is not as easy as it may seem. A review of 126 cases]. / El diagnóstico del pilomatrixoma infantil no es tan fácil como parece: revisión de 126 casos.

OBJECTIVE: To describe our experience with pilomatrixomas, clinical presentation, clinical accuracy, associated diseases, and surgical treatment. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients with a pathology report of an excised pilomatrixoma between 2011 and 2014. Data regarding gender, age of intervention, number of masses, size, location, and preoperative clinical diagnosis, pathology report, recurrences, and associated diseases were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using EPIinfo 7.1.5. RESULTS: A total of 151 tumors in 138 patients were removed, 25 were excluded for having a clinical diagnosis of pilomatrixoma without confirmation of the pathology report. The remaining 126 cases have an average age of 8.26 years (range 1-14 years) and 50.72% are males. The tumors were located above the umbilicus in 97% of the cases, with a higher concentration of 50.72% in the head and neck. The clinical diagnosis corresponds with the pathology report in 69.05% of cases. Out of these confirmed cases the most frequent differential diagnosis is cystic lesion (11.90%) and dermoid cyst (10.22%). There were no cases of malignant degeneration. The average diameter is 1.13 cm, there were no recurrences, but there were 11 cases of a new lesion in a different location. There is no statistical association with other pathologies. The most frequent diseases found were obesity (3.62%) and attention deficit syndrome (3.62%). CONCLUSION: The pilomatrixoma is a tumor that appears predominantly in the head and neck, and has a difficult clinical diagnosis. Complete removal is curative, although it does not prevent the appearance of new lesions.

OBJETIVO: Describir nuestra experiencia con pilomatrixomas, examinando la presentación clínica, acierto clínico, enfermedades asociadas y tratamiento quirúrgico. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Estudio retrospectivo de los pacientes con diagnóstico anatomo-patológico (AP) de pilomatrixoma, en el periodo de 2011 a 2014. Se recopilaron datos sobre genero, edad de intervención, número de tumoraciones, tamaño, localización, diagnóstico preoperatorio, anatomía patológica, reintervenciones y patología asociada. Se realizó el análisis estadístico con EPIinfo 7.1.5. RESULTADOS: Se extirparon un total de 151 tumores en 138 pacientes, excluyendo 25 tumoraciones por tener diagnóstico clínico de pilomatrixoma sin confirmación patológica. Los 126 casos que tienen confirmación AP de pilomatrixoma tienen una edad media de exéresis de 8,26 años de edad (1-14 años) y el 50,72% son del género masculino. El 97% de los tumores se localizan por encima del ombligo, concentrándose en la cabeza y cuello el 52,9%. La sospecha clínica corresponde con AP en el 69,05%. De los casos confirmados, los diagnósticos clínicos diferenciales más frecuentes son lesión quística (11,90%) y quiste dermoide (10,22%); no hubo pilomatrixomas con degeneración maligna. La media de diámetro es de 1,13 cm, no hubo recidivas locales, pero sí 11 nuevos casos de pilomatrixomas en otra localización. No hay asociación estadísticamente significativa a otras patologías. Las enfermedades más frecuentes encontradas son la obesidad (3,62%) y el síndrome de déficit de atención (3,62%). CONCLUSION: El pilomatrixoma es una tumoración predominantemente de aparición en cara y cuello, de difícil diagnóstico clínico. La exéresis completa es curativa, aunque no previene la aparición de nuevas lesiones.

[Intestinal stomas. Are they as simple as they seem?] / Enterostomías, ¿son tan simples como parecen?

OBJECTIVES: To examine the morbidity and mortality of the formation and closure of enterostomies. METHODS: Retrospective study between 2000-2014 of patients younger than 14 years old who underwent an enterostomy. We evaluated: surgical technique, underlying pathology, general and stoma complications, sex, age and weight at the time of formation. At the closure we evaluated: surgical technique, age, weight, hemoglobin, hematocrit and albumin, as well as complications. RESULTS: We performed 120 enterostomies in 114 patients: 69 (57.5%) colostomies, 43 (35.8%) ileostomies and 8 (6.7%) yeyunostomy. The most frequent causes were: anorectal malformation (45/69), necrotizing enterocolitis (24/43) and intestinal atresia (4/8) respectively. 39 (32.5%) complications related to the stoma (colostomy 21, Ileostomy 15, Yeyunostomy 3; p= 0.845), 11 (9.2%) required surgery (colostomy 8, Ileostomy 2, Yeyunostomy 1; p= 0.439), and 17 (14.2%) general complications (colostomy 9, Ileostomy 7, Yeyunostomy 1; p= 0.884). We found a higher rate of complications requiring surgery in loop enterostomy 8/38 (21.1%), separated 3/54 (5.3%) or double-barrel 0/25 (p= 0.007). We closed 96 (80%), presenting complications in 14; yeyunostomy 4/6 (66.7%), colostomies 5/59 (8.5%), ileostomies 5/31 (16.1%) (p= 0.001). Hematocrit and hemoglobin below age average, and albumin under normal values are associated with complications when closing enterostomies (p< 0.05). Six patients (25%) who didn't went to closure died as a result of the underlying pathology and 5 (20.8%) of other causes. CONCLUSION: The formation and closing of enterostomies remains a procedure with a high rate of complications. However, there are no clear risk factors, excepting the use of loop enterostomy and lower albumin, hemoglobin or hematocrit at the time of closure.

OBJETTIVO: Examinar la morbimortalidad de la realización y cierre de las enterostomías. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Estudio retrospectivo entre 2000-2014, de pacientes menores de 14 años a los que se les realizó una enterostomía. Evaluamos: técnica quirúrgica, patología base, complicaciones del estoma y generales, sexo, edad y peso al momento de la cirugía. Al cierre evaluamos: técnica quirúrgica, edad, peso, hemoglobina, hematocrito y albúmin, así como complicaciones. RESULTADOS: En 114 pacientes, realizamos 120 enterostomías: colostomías 69 (57,5%), ileostomías 43 (35,8%) y yeyunostomías 8 (6,7%); las causas más frecuentes para cada una: malformación ano-rectal (45/69), enterocolitis necrotizante (24/43) y atresia intestinal (4/8) respectivamente. Complicaciones relacionadas al estoma 39 (32,5%) (colostomía 21, ileostomía 15, yeyunostomía 3; p= 0,845), requirieron cirugía 11 (9,2%) (colostomía 8, ileostomía 2, yeyunostomía 1; p= 0,439), y complicaciones generales 17 (14,2%) (colostomía 9, ileostomía 7, yeyunostomía 1; p= 0,884). Encontrando mayor índice de complicaciones que requirieron cirugía en la enterostomía en asa 8/38 (21,1%), separada 3/54 (5,3%) o cañón 0/25 (p= 0,007). Cerramos 96 (80%), presentando complicaciones 14; yeyunostomías 4/6 (66,7%), colostomías 5/59 (8,5%), ileostomías 5/31 (16,1%) (p= 0,001). Se asocian a complicaciones del cierre hemoglobina y hematocrito por debajo de la media para la edad, y albúmina bajo valores normales (p< 0,05). De los pacientes no anastomosados, 6 (25%) fallecieron por patología base y 5 (20,8%) por otra causa. CONCLUSION: La elaboración y cierre de enterostomías sigue siendo un procedimiento con alto índice de complicaciones. Sin embargo, no existen factores de riesgo claros, a excepción del uso de la enterostomía en asa y de albúmina, hemoglobina y hematocrito bajos al cierre.

[Clinical assessment of fecal incontinence in patients with anorectal malformation surgery]. / Valoración clínica de la incontinencia fecal en pacientes intervenidos de malformación anorrectal.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: To review our management of anorectal malformations (ARM) and to compare two quantitative scales for clinical assessment of fecal incontinence. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We reviewed all patients with ARM surgery who are currently 3 to 15 years old. Several variables were collected and fecal incontinence was evaluated using two scales: the Holschneider scale and one used previously in our Service, both were filled out through clinical interview. RESULTS: 48 patients were studied, 29 males and 19 females. According to the Peña's classification, 81% had good prognosis indicators (group A) and 19% had bad prognosis indicators (group B). Posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) was performed in 32 patients, PSARP and abdominal approach in 3, abdomino-perineal pullthrough in 2, and a "Cut-back" anoplasty in 14 patients. There were not statistical significative differences in average age of continence between both groups. We found no significative differences on the average score of fecal incontinence between both groups using our scale (17.57/20 in group A vs 14/20 in group B; p= 0.05) but it was significantly lower in group B using the Holschneider scale (12.39/14 in group A vs 10.43/14; p= 0.04). Constipation was detected in 16 patients, half of whom had overflow pseudoincontinence. CONCLUSIONS: Our scale penalizes constipation, for this reason the average score of group A was lower and we didn't find differences with respect to group B, contrary to what it happened using Holschneider's scale, so we believe our scale could be more precise to evaluate fecal incontinence of these patients.

OBJETIVOS: Aportar nuestra experiencia en el manejo de las malformaciones anorrectales (MAR) y comparar dos escalas cuantitativas para la valoración clínica de la incontinencia fecal. MATERIAL Y METODOS: Revisamos los pacientes intervenidos de MAR con edades comprendidas entre los 3 y 15 años. Recogimos una serie de variables y evaluamos la incontinencia fecal mediante dos escalas: la de Holschneider y una utilizada previamente en nuestro Servicio, cuyos ítems se completaron mediante entrevista clínica. RESULTADOS: Estudiamos 48 pacientes, 29 niños y 19 niñas. El 81% presentaba factores de buen pronóstico (grupo A) y el 19% de mal pronóstico (grupo B) según la clasificación de Peña. El tratamiento realizado fue la anorrectoplastia sagital posterior (ARPSP) en 32 pacientes, ARPSP más descenso vía abdominal en 3, descenso abdominal en 2 y anoplastia tipo "Cut-Back" en 14. No existieron diferencias significativas en la edad media de continencia (3,41 ± 1,80 años en grupo A vs 3,92 ± 1,07 en grupo B; p= 0,35). No encontramos diferencias significativas en la media de puntuación de incontinencia utilizando nuestra escala (17,57/20 en grupo A vs 14/20 en grupo B; p= 0,05), pero fue significativamente menor en el grupo B utilizando la de Holschneider (12,39/14 en grupo A vs 10,43/14 en grupo B; p= 0,04). En 16 pacientes se detectó estreñimiento; de ellos, la mitad presentó pérdidas por rebosamiento. CONCLUSIONES: Nuestra escala penaliza el estreñimiento, por este motivo la puntuación media del grupo A fue menor y no se encontraron diferencias respecto al grupo B, contrariamente a lo ocurrido con la escala de Holschneider, por lo que podría resultar más precisa para valorar la incontinencia fecal de estos pacientes.

[What can we do to improve our management of intestinal atresia?]. / ¿Qué podemos mejorar en el tratamiento de las atresias intestinales?

OBJECTIVE: To review our management of intestinal atresia (AI). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective review of patientes with AI, from 1995 to 2011. RESULTS: AI was identified in 41 patients, 29,2% had maternal polyhydramnios and 48,7% were diagnosed prenatally. Four of them had Down Syndrome and 18 had cardiopathy. Duodenal atresia-stenosis (AD) was present in 21 patients, that were treated by 19 duodenoduodenostomy, 1 duodenojejunostomy and 1 duodenotomy with duodenal membrane resection. Jejunoileal atresia (AYI) was present in 20 patients and we performed 15 end to end anastomosis, 1 íleo-colic anastomosis, 1 ileostomy, 2 jejunostomies and 1 end to end anastomosis with jejunostomy. Nine AYI were reoperated: 6 bowel obstructions, 1 evisceration and 2 colo-rectal atresia. The average time on parenteral nutrition was 29 days and average hospital stay was 37,3 days. One AD died due to heart disease. In AYI, 2 required transfer to another center due to short bowel. CONCLUSIONS: Prenatal diagnosis of AI is difficult, especially AYI, which is only prenatally diagnosed in 35% of cases. AD respond better to surgery and rarely require reoperation, but mortality is higher than AYI because 57% suffer from heart disease. Reoperations are frecuent in AYI (45% of our patients), usually due to obstruction, ostomy closure and problems resulting from extensive bowel resections. It's important to keep in mind colorectal atresias, which can not be identified.

[Puberal gynecomastia: a comparison between the inferior periareolar approach and the concentric circle technique]. / Ginecomastia puberal: comparación entre el abordaje periareolar inferior y el de doble anillo cutáneo.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: The main reason to indicate the surgical treatment in pubertal gynecomastia is the psychological effect on the adolescent. The aim of this paper is to describe our experience in the surgical treatment of this condition, comparing the results obtained depending on the type of approach used. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In our department, the approach for the subtotal mastectomy depends mainly on the gynecomastia grade. We use an inferior periareolar incision in grades I and II, and a concentric circle technique in grade III of Simon's classification. A retrospective review was conducted to identify all adolescent patients that underwent to gynecomastia surgical treatment between 2007 and 2012. We compared the results obtained in each incision group by parametric statistical tests, RESULTS: A total of 29 mastectomies were performed in 15 patients. The mean age of surgery was 13.75 +/- 1.06 years ([11-15] years). The presentation in all cases consisted in a progressive increase in size of the mammary gland, without associated symptoms. In half of patients there was a history of obesity or overweight. We performed the concentric circle technique in 5 patients (CCT-group) and inferior periareolar incision in 10 (IPI-group). There was a higher incidence of pathologic scarring in the CCT-group, and this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.007). No recurrences were observed after a mean follow-up of 15.86 +/- 19.47 months ([3-60) months). CONCLUSIONS: Long term results were satisfactory in both groups. Despite of the higher incidence of hypertrophic and keloid scars observed in concentric circle technique, it remains aesthetically advantageous in cases of gynecomastia with extra skin.

[Currarino triad: different forms of presentation]. / Triada de Currarino: sus diferentes formas de presentación.

BACKGROUND: We describe our experience in Currarino syndrome (CS) and our clinical findings. METHODS: Case 1: Newborn female with prenatal diagnosis of myelomeningocele which was confirmed at birth as a lipomyelomeningocele, associated with partial sacral agenesis, horseshoe kidney and complex anorectal malformation with colonic vascular anomaly. Case 2: A 14-month-old male with constipation. The physical examination detected an anal stricture and radiological findings of a presacral lipomeningocele plus teratoma and a partial sacral agenesis. Case 3: An 8-month-old male with recurrent meningitis associated with anterior sacral meningocele and rectal fistula. An anal stricture and hemisacrum were also demonstrated. RESULTS: In case 1, an abdomino-perineal pull-through was performed but it failed because of her colonic vascular anomaly. Nowadays she is 3 years old and has a cecostomy, controls her micturition and is able to walk. Case 2 is two years old with satisfactory flow-up-after the teratoma and meningocele removal plus anal dilation. In case 3 a colostomy was necessary because after mass excision a recto-cutaneous fistula appeared during postoperative period. A ventriculoperitoneal valve implantation due to his hydrocephaly was also performed. CONCLUSIONS: The constipation is the most common symptom in the CS. Recurrent meningitis has a high mortality rate (56%) due to rectomeningeal fistula. The most common anorectal malformation is the anal stricture, and the more complex the malformation is, higher will the risk of incontinence be. The success of the management and follow-up is a multidisciplinary responsability.

[Assessment of nutritional status in esophageal atresia]. / Valoración del estado nutricional en los pacientes afectos de atresia de esófago.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to find out whether patients who underwent esophageal atresia (EA) surgery suffered from nutritional problems, to compare the nutritional status of these patients with a control group, and to determine if there is a relationship between the type of atresia and the nutritional condition. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We selected 25 patients out of a total of 32 who underwent EA surgery in our hospital from 2000 to 2006. A retrospective was conducted study based on the information obtained from the medical histories. A case-control study was also carried out by selecting a control group from a randomized population. RESULTS: The analyses performed showed that the mean weight and height Z-score was always negative, but not below -2 SD. There was a significant decrease in the weight Z-score between 3 and 9 months and in the weight/size Z-score between 3 and 24 months. Significant differences in weight and size Z-score were found between cases and controls, but not in skin-fold thickness. Independently of the type of atresia and the presence or not of congenital heart defects, no significant differences were found. CONCLUSIONS: There are significant differences in the weight and height Z-score between cases and controls. We stress the need to be aware of the nutritional status in order to prevent changes that could lead to a further deterioration of the patient.

[The PEG: why wait?]. / La PEG: ¿Por qué esperar?

UNLABELLED: The swallowing disorder is an impediment to feed the patient. The percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) offers importants advantages over nasogastric tube feeding in patients who need long-term enteral nutrition with difficulty to swallow and to failure to thrive. METHODS: We have achieved 40 PEG in our department over the past 10 years. We registered date of the age, weight, indications, types of PEG, the time to first change, evolution of weight and percentiles and the complications. RESULTS: The average age of our patients was 5 years, 30% under 1 year. We used mostly tubes between 9 and 15 Fr and increasing the size according to nutritional needs. The average weight at the time of PEG placement was 13 kg. The main indications were the impossibility to swallow and failure to thrive and the principal diagnosis was the encephalopathy in 45% of cases. The surgical technique was successful in 100%. Of the complications, only two patients required surgery, a gastrocolic fistula and a laparotomy about broken tube of gastrostomy that has been caught in the cecum. In our series we reported 11 cases of mortality from causes unrelated to the gastrotmy. CONCLUSIONS: The PEG is a good alternative to nasogastric tube in patients with swallowing disorders or failure to thrive in chronic diseases, even in children under one year. The early placement of the PEG support the growth development in these patients with chronic disease who require enteral nutrition for long periods. Probably, the time of placement should be more precocious in chronic patients as well tolerated and may have a long life with a good care.

[Differential diagnosis of the interlabial masses in girls under 5-years-old]. / Diagnóstico diferencial de las masas interlabiales en niñas menores de 5 años.

UNLABELLED: The masses that we can be found at interlabial in a girl are a extensive spectrum of heterogenous lesions and often there is a confusion in diagnosis, management and prognosis. METHODS: We present 5 cases of interlabial masses, prolapsed urethra, two paraurethral Skene cysts, botryoid sarcoma and fibroepithelial polyp, and its clinical of debut. RESULTS: A prolapsed urethra is presented in a 4-year-old black girl with vaginal bleeding from edamatous periurethral mass. The paraurethral cyst is a yellowish cystic mass displacing the urethral meatus in two newborn girls. The fibroepithelial polyp is presented in a newborn girl as polipoid and wartlike tumor and not bleeding injury in the introitus. The botryoid sarcoma appears in a 1-year-old girl with ulcerated polypoid mass of 2 cm from vagina. All cases were treated with surgery except the paraurethral cyst that drained spontaneously and the rhabdomyosarcoma was also treated with chemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS: There must be a good clinical examinations about interlabial masses distinguishing genital or urological origin. The surgery is indicated mainly to reject malignancy because the presentation of sarcoma and polyp could be similar. The prognosis of rhabdomyosarcoma vaginal is good with surgery and chemotherapy. The prolapsed urethra is more common in prepubertal black girls and it is important to exclude sexual abuse. The management of paraurethral cyst is controversial but some authors are advised first observation because they may regress.

[Pancreatic pseudocyst: less is more]. / Pseudoquiste pancreático: cuando menos es más.

UNLABELLED: Pancreatic pseudocysts (PQP) are rare in childhood and management tends to be individualized and controversial, and it is a challenge for the pediatric surgeon. The aim of this study is to determine the best management strategies in each patient. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective review of children admitted to our institution with the diagnosis of PQP and review of literature between 1990 and 2007. RESULTS: We report two children with postraumatic PQP that respond to non-operative management and 284 cases that were reported in literature (76% after blunt abdominal trauma). 26% of these patients had complete resolution of PQP with conservative management and the others patients required surgical intervention: external percutaneous drainage (18.6%), non-percutanueous external drainage drenaje (3.87%), cystogastrostomy (28.87%), cystojejunostomy o pancreaticojejunostomy (9.5%), endoscopic drainage (9.5%) or distal pancreatectomy (3.5%). CONCLUSION: The choice of treatment depends on the surgeon's experience and management of the endoscopic techniques, as well as the availability of interventionist radiology. Asymptomatic PQP in children does no require any specific intervention other than expectant management, especially in patients with trauma-induced PQP. Children with persistent clinical symptoms or those who developed complications may require further intervention.

[Increase of the chondroitin-sulfate proteoglycan, fibronectin and fibroblasts in infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis]. / Aumento de la expresión del proteoglicano condroitín-sulfato, fibronectina y fibroblastos en la estenosis hipertrófica de píloro.

INTRODUCTION: Infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) consists of hypertrophy of the muscular layer of the pylorus. Its etiology is still unknown. In the last years only few jobs that studied the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the muscular layer in the IHPS have been reported. Our aim was to investigate the expression of two ECM molecules: chondroitin-sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG) and fibronectin (FN), and fibroblasts. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Full-thickness muscle biopsy specimens were obtained from 33 IHPS patients at pyloromyotomy and 12 controls. Indirect immunohistochemistry was performed using CSPG, FN and fibroblasts monoclonal antibodies. The results were showed by a semiquantitative scale as follows: strong (++), moderate (+), weak (+/-), and absent (-). RESULTS: We demonstrated that the CSPG immunoreactivity was localized in the connective tissue septa and the expression of FN molecules in the pericellular space. Both molecules were significantly the increased in the muscle layer of the pylorus with IHPS in relation to control pylorus. We also demonstrated a marked increased expression in the number of fibroblasts in the muscle layer of the pylorus with IHPS. Even-though the most striking increase was localized in the septa, we also observed great number of fibroblasts amongst the smooth muscle cells. CONCLUSIONS: We suggest that IHPS is characterized, not only by the muscle layer hypertrophy, but also by the increase of several ECM molecules, such as CSPG and FN. We also think that the increase of fibroblast could explain the higher expression of both ECM molecules in the muscle layer of pylorus in IHPS.

[Primary torsion of the greater omentum]. / Torsión primaria de epiplón mayor.

OBJECTIVE: Primary torsion of the greater omentum is an infrequent cause of acute abdomen in children. A retrospective review was conducted to establish the prevalence and clinical features of omental torsion as a cause of acute abdominal pain in childhood. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We reviewed the clinical histories of the children given surgical treatment for torsion of the greater omentum in our hospital in the last 25 years. The following data were studied: age at presentation, sex, predisposing factors, symptomatology, complementary investigations, treatment and evolution. RESULTS: The male:female ratio among the 15 patients who underwent surgery was 2:1. Symptomology was similar to that of acute appendicitis with certain peculiarities such as a longer period of evolution at the moment of diagnosis, lower temperature and leucocytosis lower than would be expected in appendicitis at the same time of evolution and, in 12 patients, absence of vomiting. After surgical treatment evolution was satisfactory. Torsion was primary in 13 patients, secondary to inguinal hernia in 1 and secondary to cystic lymphangioma of the omentum in 1. The etiology and pathogenesis, as well as the diagnostic and therapeutic problems of this process, are discussed. CONCLUSIONS: In all the patients with primary torsion the clinical diagnosis was of acute appendicitis. Although primary torsion is classically associated with obesity, only 1 of the 13 patients weighed significantly more than the average for the same age and sex in our region and none of the patients showed a clearly associated anatomic malformation.

[Cystic dilation of the bile duct in childhood]. / Dilatación quística de la vía biliar en la infancia.

OBJECTIVES: Common bile duct dilatation (CBDD) represents part of a wide spectrum of pancreaticobiliary disorders, with different etiopathogenic mechanisms. The objective of this study was to compile the cases treated in our service during the last five years. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Four cases of CBDD (17 months to 10 years of age) are reported. All of them presented abdominal pain and bilious vomiting. One patient previously had pancreatitis. Cholestatic jaundice was associated in only one patient. The diagnosis was made by ultrasound, being confirmed by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in three cases and by computed tomography scan (CT) in one case. RESULTS: Three patients had a single fusiform dilation of the extrahepatic bile duct (type I cyst, Alonso Lej-Todani classification), which were treated by cyst excision and hepaticojejunostomy by using a Roux-en-Y limb. In one patient, the ERCP detected a combined dilatation of the intra- and extrahepatic bile duct (type IV cyst), associated with an anomalous choledochopancreticoductal junction with a distal obstruction of the common bile duct. In the case, the treatment consisted of a transduodenal esfintherotomy. CONCLUSIONS: Based on our experience and a literature review, an increasing incidence of this pathology is deduce. Therefore, the relevance of ultrasounds and ERCP in the diagnosis and visualization of pancreatobiliary ducts and the choice of treatment, depending on the CBDD, are discussed.

[Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome: study of eleven cases]. / Síndrome de Beckwith-Wiedemann: estudio de once casos.

In this paper we report a review of the omphalic pathology that was admitted to our hospital from january 1973 through december 1990. Eleven cases of Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome were diagnosed during this period of time. Our eleven cases comply with at least three of the four major criteria (omphalocele, macroglossia, gigantism and neonatal hypoglycemia) and several of the minor criteria. The interest of this paper is based on the rareness of this syndrome and its association in two of our cases with Cacchi-Ricci Syndrome. Moreover, one of these cases later presented with a Wilms' tumor. Finally, we emphasize the importance of an early diagnosis of this syndrome in order to avoid the metabolic disturbances (hypoglycemia), to establish prompt treatment of the serious anomalies (omphalocele) and to control and follow these patients since they have increased risk to develop neoplastic disease.