Incidental diagnosis of cardiac fibroma in an infant with acute viral bronchiolitis.

OBJECTIVE: Pediatric cardiac tumors are rare and, among them, 90% are benign. Cardiac fibroma is the second most frequent tumor, after rhabdomyoma. The objective of this study is to report a case of cardiac fibroma diagnosed incidentally in a patient admitted with acute viral bronchiolitis. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 5-month-old male infant was admitted to the pediatric emergency department with acute viral bronchiolitis requiring hospitalization. He presented a detectable respiratory syncytial virus in oropharyngeal swab, blood test with lymphocytosis and a chest radiography revealed cardiomegaly. Further cardiologic testing was performed detecting elevation of cardiac biomarkers, an electrocardiogram with alteration of left ventricular repolarization and echocardiogram with a heterogeneous mass in the left ventricular, with areas of calcification. A chest angiotomography suggested rhabdomyosarcoma or cardiac fibroma and a magnetic resonance showed a mass, with characteristics suggesting fibroma. The final diagnosis was made after two cardiac catheterizations for biopsy of the lesion, confirming cardiac fibroma by anatomopathological examination. Because the patient had moderate to severe systolic dysfunction, he was submitted to heart transplant. COMMENTS: One third of cardiac fibromas are asymptomatic, generally diagnosed late through tests ordered for other reasons. The gold-standard test for definitive diagnosis is biopsy. Cardiac fibroma usually does not present spontaneous regression and, in most cases, partial or total surgical resection is necessary. When tumors are unresectable, heart transplantation should be indicated. It is essential to have detailed characterization of the cardiac mass to establish the most appropriate therapeutic approach for each patient.

Position paper of diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis in children: a multidisciplinary expert-based opinion.

OBJECTIVES: To make recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of post-extubation laryngitis (PEL) in children with or without other comorbidities. METHODS: A three-iterative modified Delphi method was applied. Specialists were recruited representing pediatric otolaryngologists, pediatric and neonatal intensivists. Questions and statements approached topics encompassing definition, diagnosis, endoscopic airway evaluation, risk factors, comorbidities, management, and follow-up. A consensus was defined as a supermajority >70%. RESULTS: Stridor was considered the most frequent symptom and airway endoscopy was recommended for definitive diagnosis. Gastroesophageal reflux and previous history of intubation were considered risk factors. Specific length of intubation did not achieve a consensus as a risk factor. Systemic corticosteroids should be part of the medical treatment and dexamethasone was the drug of choice. No consensus was achieved regarding dosage of corticosteroids, although endoscopic findings help defining dosage and length of treatment. Non-invasive ventilation, laryngeal rest, and use of comfort sedation scales were recommended. Indications for microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy under anesthesia were symptoms progression or failure to improve after the first 72-h of medical treatment post-extubation, after two failed extubations, and/or suspicion of severe lesions on flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: Management of post-extubation laryngitis is challenging and can be facilitated by a multidisciplinary approach. Airway endoscopy is mandatory and impacts decision-making, although there is no consensus regarding dosage and length of treatment.

Knowledge regarding extracorporeal membrane oxygenation management among Brazilian pediatric intensivists: a cross-sectional survey.

OBJECTIVE: To assess Brazilian pediatric intensivists' general knowledge of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, including evidence for its use, the national funding model, indications, and complications. METHODS: This was a multicenter cross-sectional survey including 45 Brazilian pediatric intensive care units. A convenience sample of 654 intensivists was surveyed regarding their knowledge on managing patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, its indications, complications, funding, and literature evidence. RESULTS: The survey addressed questions regarding the knowledge and experience of pediatric intensivists with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, including two clinical cases and 6 optional questions about the management of patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Of the 45 invited centers, 42 (91%) participated in the study, and 412 of 654 (63%) pediatric intensivists responded to the survey. Most pediatric intensive care units were from the Southeast region of Brazil (59.5%), and private/for-profit hospitals represented 28.6% of the participating centers. The average age of respondents was 41.4 (standard deviation 9.1) years, and the majority (77%) were women. Only 12.4% of respondents had taken an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation course. Only 19% of surveyed hospitals have an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation program, and only 27% of intensivists reported having already managed patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Specific extracorporeal membrane oxygenation management questions were responded to by only 64 physicians (15.5%), who had a fair/good correct response rate (median 63.4%; range 32.8% to 91.9%). CONCLUSION: Most Brazilian pediatric intensivists demonstrated limited knowledge regarding extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, including its indications and complications. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is not yet widely available in Brazil, with few intensivists prepared to manage patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and even fewer intensivists recognizing when to refer patients to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation centers.

Knowledge regarding extracorporeal membrane oxygenation management among Brazilian pediatric intensivists: a cross-sectional survey / Conhecimento do manejo da oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea de intensivistas pediátricos brasileiros: um inquérito transversal

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess Brazilian pediatric intensivists' general knowledge of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, including evidence for its use, the national funding model, indications, and complications. Methods: This was a multicenter cross-sectional survey including 45 Brazilian pediatric intensive care units. A convenience sample of 654 intensivists was surveyed regarding their knowledge on managing patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, its indications, complications, funding, and literature evidence. Results: The survey addressed questions regarding the knowledge and experience of pediatric intensivists with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, including two clinical cases and 6 optional questions about the management of patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Of the 45 invited centers, 42 (91%) participated in the study, and 412 of 654 (63%) pediatric intensivists responded to the survey. Most pediatric intensive care units were from the Southeast region of Brazil (59.5%), and private/for-profit hospitals represented 28.6% of the participating centers. The average age of respondents was 41.4 (standard deviation 9.1) years, and the majority (77%) were women. Only 12.4% of respondents had taken an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation course. Only 19% of surveyed hospitals have an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation program, and only 27% of intensivists reported having already managed patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Specific extracorporeal membrane oxygenation management questions were responded to by only 64 physicians (15.5%), who had a fair/good correct response rate (median 63.4%; range 32.8% to 91.9%). Conclusion: Most Brazilian pediatric intensivists demonstrated limited knowledge regarding extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, including its indications and complications. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is not yet widely available in Brazil, with few intensivists prepared to manage patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and even fewer intensivists recognizing when to refer patients to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation centers.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os conhecimentos gerais dos intensivistas pediátricos brasileiros sobre oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea, incluindo evidências de uso, modelo de custeio nacional, indicações e complicações. Métodos: Este estudo foi um inquérito transversal multicêntrico que incluiu 45 unidades de terapia intensiva pediátrica brasileiras. Realizou-se inquérito de conveniência com 654 intensivistas quanto aos seus conhecimentos sobre manejo de pacientes em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea, suas indicações, complicações, custeio e evidências bibliográficas. Resultados: O inquérito abordou questões relativas aos conhecimentos e à experiência dos intensivistas pediátricos sobre oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea, incluindo dois casos clínicos e seis questões facultativas sobre o manejo de pacientes em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea. Dos 45 centros convidados, 42 (91%) participaram do estudo, e 412 (63%) dos 654 intensivistas pediátricos responderam ao inquérito. A maioria das unidades de terapia intensiva pediátrica eram da Região Sudeste do Brasil (59,5%), e os hospitais privados com fins lucrativos representavam 28,6% dos centros participantes. A média de idade dos respondentes era de 41,4 (desvio-padrão de 9,1) anos, e a maioria (77%) era mulher. Apenas 12,4% dos respondentes tinham formação em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea. Dos hospitais pesquisados, apenas 19% tinham um programa de oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea, e apenas 27% dos intensivistas declararam já ter manejado pacientes em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea. Apenas 64 médicos (15,5%) responderam a questões específicas sobre o manejo de oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea (mediana 63,4%; oscilando entre 32,8% e 91,9%). Conclusão: A maioria dos intensivistas pediátricos brasileiros demonstrou conhecimentos limitados de oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea, incluindo suas indicações e complicações. A oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea ainda não está amplamente disponível no Brasil, com poucos intensivistas preparados para o manejo de pacientes em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea e ainda menos intensivistas capazes de reconhecer quando devem encaminhar pacientes para centros de oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea.

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children: a case series.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a case series of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) in a pediatric tertiary hospital. METHODS: Patients under the age of 18 years who met MIS-C criteria of the Brazilian Ministry of Health (MH) and/or the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) were included. A retrospective analysis was carried out by reviewing medical records and complementary exams. RESULTS: Six pediatric patients with mean age of 126 months were admitted with fever associated with multisystem involvement: all of them had abdominal pain and diarrhea and two underwent appendectomy; 100% had coagulopathy and increased inflammatory markers; 83% had cardiovascular impairment and 60% required vasoactive drugs; 83% had mucocutaneous symptoms and 50% required ventilatory support by invasive mechanical ventilation or non-invasive ventilation. One patient showed coronary artery dilation on echocardiogram. All patients received empiric antibiotic therapies. SARS-CoV-2 IgG testing was positive in five patients. Treatment was performed after excluding infectious causes: five patients (83%) received intravenous immunoglobulin, five patients (83%) pulse methylprednisolone therapy and one (16%) Tocilizumab. One patient died. The average length of stay in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) was seven days. CONCLUSIONS: These cases are added to the literature in construction of this emerging condition. Early diagnosis should be considered due to its potential severity.

Impacto do uso de drogas nefrotóxicas em pacientes pediátricos graves / Impact of the use of nephrotoxic drugs in critically ill pediatric patients

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre uso de drogas nefrotóxicas e lesão renal aguda em pacientes pediátricos graves. Métodos: Estudo de coorte retrospectivo envolvendo todas as crianças internadas na unidade de terapia intensiva de um hospital pediátrico durante o período de 1 ano. A lesão renal aguda foi definida pela classificação KDIGO. Foram incluídos pacientes com tempo de internação maior que 48 horas e idade entre 1 mês e 14 anos. Foram excluídos aqueles com nefropatia aguda ou crônica, uropatia, cardiopatia congênita ou adquirida, uso crônico de drogas nefrotóxicas, rabdomiólise e síndrome de lise tumoral. Os pacientes foram classificados quanto ao uso de drogas nefrotóxicas durante internação na unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica. Resultados: A amostra foi composta por 226 crianças, sendo que 37,1% fizeram uso de drogas nefrotóxicas, 42,4% desenvolveram lesão renal aguda e 7,5% morreram. As medicações que, isoladamente, apresentaram associação com lesão renal aguda foram aciclovir (p < 0,001), vancomicina (p < 0,001), furosemida (p < 0,001) e ganciclovir (p = 0,008). O uso concomitante de duas ou mais drogas nefrotóxicas foi caracterizado como marcador independente de disfunção renal (p < 0,001). Após alta da unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica, o acompanhamento da função renal na enfermaria foi inadequado em 19,8% dos casos. Conclusão: É necessário que o médico intensivista tenha conhecimento das principais drogas nefrotóxicas, de modo a prever, reduzir ou evitar danos a seus pacientes.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the association between the use of nephrotoxic drugs and acute kidney injury in critically ill pediatric patients. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study involving all children admitted to the intensive care unit of a pediatric hospital during a 1-year period. Acute kidney injury was defined according to the KDIGO classification. Patients with a length of hospital stay longer than 48 hours and an age between 1 month and 14 years were included. Patients with acute or chronic nephropathy, uropathy, congenital or acquired heart disease, chronic use of nephrotoxic drugs, rhabdomyolysis and tumor lysis syndrome were excluded. Patients were classified according to the use of nephrotoxic drugs during their stay at the pediatric intensive care unit. Results: The sample consisted of 226 children, of whom 37.1% used nephrotoxic drugs, 42.4% developed acute kidney injury, and 7.5% died. The following drugs, when used alone, were associated with acute kidney injury: acyclovir (p < 0.001), vancomycin (p < 0.001), furosemide (p < 0.001) and ganciclovir (p = 0.008). The concomitant use of two or more nephrotoxic drugs was characterized as an independent marker of renal dysfunction (p < 0.001). After discharge from the pediatric intensive care unit, renal function monitoring in the ward was inadequate in 19.8% of cases. Conclusion: It is necessary for intensivist physicians to have knowledge of the main nephrotoxic drugs to predict, reduce or avoid damage to their patients.

SCHISTOSOMAL MYELORADICULOPATHY IN A NON-ENDEMIC AREA.

OBJECTIVE: To report a schistosomal myeloradiculopathy case in a non-endemic area. CASE DESCRIPTION: A previously healthy 11-year-old boy, stricken by an acute loss of strength on his lower limbs, followed by a loss of strength on his upper limbs and upper body, associated with altered sensitivity of the vesical globe formation. The patient's cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed eosinophilic meningitis, in addition to peripheral eosinophilia. The investigation resulted in a positive serology for Schistosoma mansoni. The treatment included steroids and praziquantel 60mg/kg, with a new dose after a month, as well as physical therapy for rehabilitation. The patient evolved with clinical improvement in the neurological exam, with a medullary section initially at C6, but now at T6. The patient is kept at prednisolone use (30mg/day) and longterm urinary catheter dependence. COMMENTS: The schistosomiasis is endemic in many regions of Brazil; however, it has low incidence in the south of the country. Among its main manifestations, the schistosomal myeloradiculopathy is the most severe ectopic form of the disease, and should be suspected in patients with low back pain, strength and/or sensibility disorder of the lower limbs or urinary tract's disturbance. Early diagnosis and treatment should be done in order to reduce severe neurological sequelae. Treatment includes schistosomiasis drugs, corticosteroids and/or surgery.

Impact of the use of nephrotoxic drugs in critically ill pediatric patients. / Impacto do uso de drogas nefrotóxicas em pacientes pediátricos graves.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between the use of nephrotoxic drugs and acute kidney injury in critically ill pediatric patients. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study involving all children admitted to the intensive care unit of a pediatric hospital during a 1-year period. Acute kidney injury was defined according to the KDIGO classification. Patients with a length of hospital stay longer than 48 hours and an age between 1 month and 14 years were included. Patients with acute or chronic nephropathy, uropathy, congenital or acquired heart disease, chronic use of nephrotoxic drugs, rhabdomyolysis and tumor lysis syndrome were excluded. Patients were classified according to the use of nephrotoxic drugs during their stay at the pediatric intensive care unit. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 226 children, of whom 37.1% used nephrotoxic drugs, 42.4% developed acute kidney injury, and 7.5% died. The following drugs, when used alone, were associated with acute kidney injury: acyclovir (p < 0.001), vancomycin (p < 0.001), furosemide (p < 0.001) and ganciclovir (p = 0.008). The concomitant use of two or more nephrotoxic drugs was characterized as an independent marker of renal dysfunction (p < 0.001). After discharge from the pediatric intensive care unit, renal function monitoring in the ward was inadequate in 19.8% of cases. CONCLUSION: It is necessary for intensivist physicians to have knowledge of the main nephrotoxic drugs to predict, reduce or avoid damage to their patients.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação entre uso de drogas nefrotóxicas e lesão renal aguda em pacientes pediátricos graves. MÉTODOS: Estudo de coorte retrospectivo envolvendo todas as crianças internadas na unidade de terapia intensiva de um hospital pediátrico durante o período de 1 ano. A lesão renal aguda foi definida pela classificação KDIGO. Foram incluídos pacientes com tempo de internação maior que 48 horas e idade entre 1 mês e 14 anos. Foram excluídos aqueles com nefropatia aguda ou crônica, uropatia, cardiopatia congênita ou adquirida, uso crônico de drogas nefrotóxicas, rabdomiólise e síndrome de lise tumoral. Os pacientes foram classificados quanto ao uso de drogas nefrotóxicas durante internação na unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica. RESULTADOS: A amostra foi composta por 226 crianças, sendo que 37,1% fizeram uso de drogas nefrotóxicas, 42,4% desenvolveram lesão renal aguda e 7,5% morreram. As medicações que, isoladamente, apresentaram associação com lesão renal aguda foram aciclovir (p < 0,001), vancomicina (p < 0,001), furosemida (p < 0,001) e ganciclovir (p = 0,008). O uso concomitante de duas ou mais drogas nefrotóxicas foi caracterizado como marcador independente de disfunção renal (p < 0,001). Após alta da unidade de terapia intensiva pediátrica, o acompanhamento da função renal na enfermaria foi inadequado em 19,8% dos casos. CONCLUSÃO: É necessário que o médico intensivista tenha conhecimento das principais drogas nefrotóxicas, de modo a prever, reduzir ou evitar danos a seus pacientes.

Schistosomal myeloradiculopathy in a non-endemic area / Mielorradiculopatia esquistossomótica em região não endêmica

ABSTRACT Objective: To report a schistosomal myeloradiculopathy case in a non-endemic area. Case description: A previously healthy 11-year-old boy, stricken by an acute loss of strength on his lower limbs, followed by a loss of strength on his upper limbs and upper body, associated with altered sensitivity of the vesical globe formation. The patient's cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed eosinophilic meningitis, in addition to peripheral eosinophilia. The investigation resulted in a positive serology for Schistosoma mansoni. The treatment included steroids and praziquantel 60mg/kg, with a new dose after a month, as well as physical therapy for rehabilitation. The patient evolved with clinical improvement in the neurological exam, with a medullary section initially at C6, but now at T6. The patient is kept at prednisolone use (30mg/day) and longterm urinary catheter dependence. Comments: The schistosomiasis is endemic in many regions of Brazil; however, it has low incidence in the south of the country. Among its main manifestations, the schistosomal myeloradiculopathy is the most severe ectopic form of the disease, and should be suspected in patients with low back pain, strength and/or sensibility disorder of the lower limbs or urinary tract's disturbance. Early diagnosis and treatment should be done in order to reduce severe neurological sequelae. Treatment includes schistosomiasis drugs, corticosteroids and/or surgery.

RESUMO Objetivo: Relatar um caso de mielorradiculopatia esquistossomótica em área não endêmica. Descrição do caso: Paciente do sexo masculino, 11 anos, previamente hígido, com história aguda de paresia de membros inferiores, que evoluiu para membros superiores e tronco, associada à alteração de sensibilidade e formação de globo vesical. O exame do líquor demonstrava meningite eosinofílica, além de eosinofilia periférica. A investigação resultou em sorologia positiva para Schistosoma mansoni. O tratamento foi realizado com corticoterapia e praziquantel 60 mg/kg, com nova dose após um mês, além de fisioterapia para reabilitação. Evoluiu com melhora clínica no exame neurológico, com nível de secção medular que inicialmente correspondia a C6, encontrando-se atualmente em T6. Mantém uso de prednisolona 30 mg/dia e dependência de sonda vesical de demora. Comentários: A esquistossomose é uma doença endêmica em muitas regiões do Brasil, porém com pouca incidência no Sul do país. Dentre as principais manifestações, a mielorradiculopatia esquistossomótica é a forma ectópica mais grave e deve ser suspeitada na vigência de dor lombar, alteração de força e/ ou sensibilidade de membros inferiores e distúrbio urinário. O diagnóstico e o tratamento devem ser instituídos precocemente para diminuir o risco de sequelas neurológicas graves. O tratamento pode ser realizado com esquistossomicidas, corticosteroides e/ ou cirurgia.

Hipomagnesemia no pós-operatório de artrodese de coluna / Hypomagnesemia after spinal fusion

OBJETIVOS: Verificar a frequência de hipomagnesemia em pacientes pediátricos submetidos a artrodese de coluna, avaliando se há queda significativa nas dosagens de magnésio sérico nos períodos pré e pós-operatório, quais suas possíveis causas e quais as consequências clínicas para os pacientes. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo e descritivo dos pacientes admitidos em uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva pediátrica no pós-operatório de artrodese de coluna, no período de 1º de março a 31 de agosto de 2011. Foram comparados os níveis de magnésio, fósforo, cálcio total e ionizado no pré-operatório com os valores encontrados após a admissão na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos 45 pacientes, com idade média de 13,1 anos. No pré-operatório, o valor médio do magnésio foi de 1,8±0,2 mg/dL, e no pós-operatório, de 1,4±0,2 mg/dL, o que demonstra uma queda significativa entre os dois períodos (p < 0,001). A frequência de hipomagnesemia foi de somente um paciente (2%) no pré-operatório para 31 (68%) no pós-operatório. Houve também queda significativa nos níveis de fósforo (p < 0,001) e cálcio total (p < 0,001). Houve correlação significativa entre a queda do magnésio e o volume de fluido recebido durante a cirurgia (p = 0,03), volume de transfusão sanguínea (p < 0,001) e número de vértebras fixadas (p < 0,05). Dos 31 pacientes com hipomagnesemia, sete (22%) apresentaram sintomas. CONCLUSÃO: Existe uma elevada frequência de hipomagnesemia em pacientes submetidos a artrodese de coluna. Ao realizar a dosagem do magnésio sérico no momento da admissão na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva, a reposição adequada pode ser prontamente iniciada, minimizando o risco de complicações.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the frequency of hypomagnesaemia in pediatric patients after spinal fusion, to verify whether postoperative magnesium levels were lower than preoperative levels and, if so, to identify possible causes and assess the clinical repercussions for patients. METHODS: This was a retrospective descriptive study of pediatric patients admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) after spine fusion surgery, between March 1 and August 31, 2011. Preoperative magnesium, phosphorus and total and ionized calcium concentrations were compared with the results of tests conducted during the first 24 hours after admission to the ICU. RESULTS: A total of 45 patients were enrolled on the study. Median age was 13.1 years. Preoperative mean serum magnesium was 1.8±0.2 mg/dL and postoperative serum magnesium was 1.4±0.2 mg/dL, which was a significant reduction between the two periods (p < 0.001). The frequency of hypomagnesaemia rose from 1 patient (2%) in the preoperative period to 31 patients (68%) during the postoperative period. There were also significant reductions in concentrations of phosphorus (p < 0.001) and total calcium (p < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between magnesium reductions and the volume of fluids administered during the surgery (p = 0.03), transfused blood volume (p < 0.001) and number of vertebrae fused (p < 0.05). Seven of the 31 patients with hypomagnesemia exhibited symptoms (22%). CONCLUSION: There was an elevated frequency of hypomagnesemia in patients who underwent spinal fusion. Serum magnesium should be assayed when patients are admitted to the pediatric ICU, so appropriate supplementation can be initiated immediately, minimizing the risk of complications.

Hypomagnesemia after spinal fusion.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the frequency of hypomagnesemia in pediatric patients after spinal fusion, to verify whether postoperative magnesium levels were lower than preoperative levels and, if so, to identify possible causes and assess the clinical repercussions for patients. METHODS: This was a retrospective descriptive study of pediatric patients admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) after spine fusion surgery, between March 1 and August 31, 2011. Preoperative magnesium, phosphorus and total and ionized calcium concentrations were compared with the results of tests conducted during the first 24 hours after admission to the ICU. RESULTS: A total of 45 patients were enrolled on the study. Median age was 13.1 years. Preoperative mean serum magnesium was 1.8 ± 0.2 mg/dL and postoperative serum magnesium was 1.4 ± 0.2 mg/dL, which was a significant reduction between the two periods (p < 0.001). The frequency of hypomagnesemia rose from 1 patient (2%) in the preoperative period to 31 patients (68%) during the postoperative period. There were also significant reductions in concentrations of phosphorus (p < 0.001) and total calcium (p < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between magnesium reductions and the volume of fluids administered during the surgery (p = 0.03), transfused blood volume (p < 0.001) and number of vertebrae fused (p < 0.05). Seven of the 31 patients with hypomagnesemia exhibited symptoms (22%). CONCLUSION: There was an elevated frequency of hypomagnesemia in patients who underwent spinal fusion. Serum magnesium should be assayed when patients are admitted to the pediatric ICU, so that appropriate supplementation can be initiated immediately, minimizing the risk of complications.

[Immediate post-operative care following cardiac surgery]. / Cuidados imediatos no pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca.

OBJECTIVE: To present a care routine for children submitted to heart surgery. SOURCE OF DATA: Literature review of Medscape, MD Consult and PubMed. Analysis of the suggested conducts adopted by various services from different countries and comparison with the care routine at the Pequeno Príncipe Children's Hospital (Curitiba, state of Paraná), where approximately 8,000 heart surgeries were performed in children from 1977 to April 2003. SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS: Our hospital is a reference center for Cardiology and Heart Surgery in the state of Paraná and neighboring states. The improvement of conditions for diagnosis, training of the clinical and surgical teams, better equipped ICU with more modern monitoring, training of ICU personnel from all areas to handle the post-operative requirements of patients submitted to heart surgery, an adequate hospital structure with advanced care in all pediatric and paramedic specialties have resulted in marked improvement in relation to previous years in terms of the results of surgical interventions in children with congenital or acquired heart disease, especially newborns and young babies with complex heart problems. CONCLUSION: Children with heart diseases, especially complex conditions, should be receive care at reference centers that can provide global care before, during and after the surgery.

Cuidados imediatos no pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca / Immediate post-operative care following cardiac surgery

OBJETIVO: Apresentar uma rotina de atendimento para crianças submetidas à cirurgia cardíaca. FONTES DOS DADOS: Realizada revisão bibliográfica através de bancos de dados (Medline, Mdconsult, PubMed), analisando as condutas sugeridas por diversos serviços fora do Brasil e comparando com a rotina de atendimento no Hospital Infantil Pequeno Príncipe, de Curitiba, onde foram realizadas cerca de 8.000 cirurgias cardíacas desde 1977 até abril de 2003. SíNTESE DOS DADOS: O serviço citado é referência em cardiologia e cirurgia cardíaca no estado do Paraná e estados vizinhos. A evolução das condições de diagnóstico, preparo da equipe clínica e cirúrgica, unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI) melhor equipada com monitorização mais avançada, equipe da UTI com pessoal treinado em todas as áreas para fazer pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca, estrutura hospitalar adequada, oferecendo atendimento avançado em todas as especialidades pediátricas e paramédicas, fazem com que o resultado das intervenções cirúrgicas realizadas em crianças com cardiopatias congênitas ou adquiridas, principalmente nos recém-nascidos e lactentes jovens com cardiopatias complexas, apresente sensível melhora quando comparado com anos anteriores. CONCLUSÃO: As crianças com cardiopatias, principalmente as complexas, devem ser encaminhadas para um local que seja centro de referência, onde haja condições para um atendimento global no pré, per e pós-operatório.

Hérnia diafragmática à direita em um paciente com membrana hialina: diagnóstico evolutivo; relato de caso / Right diaphragmatic hernia in a patient with hyaline membrane: evolutive diagnosis; a case report

É relatado um caso de hérnia diafragmática direita em um RN pré-termo que desenvolveu membrana hialina nas primeiras horas de vida e, quando da resoluçäo desta, iniciou uma ascensäo hepática pelo forame de Bochdalek, com traduçäo clínica de um distress respiratório e radiográfico de um derrame pleural. Esta migraçäo tardia é atribuida à existência de uma pressäo positiva intratorácica que manteve o fígado em sua posiçäo anatômica até a retirada da assistência ventilatória (CPAP nasal), quando ocorreu uma queda dos níveis pressóricos e a diminuiçäo da resistência pulmonar