Is ultrasound guidance necessary to avoid complications in the implantation of venous access ports?

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to present demographic information of patients undergoing totally implantable venous access port (TIVAP) implantation and to investigate the rates of early and late complications, assessing the benefits of performing the procedure underUS guidance. METHODS: From May 2018 to December 2023, the outcomes of a total of 537 TIVAP implantation procedures were analyzed retrospectively. Data of the surgeons' experiences for both puncture methods (anatomical landmarks and ultrasound guidance) are presented in the study. RESULTS: The average age of the patients was 53.1±11.9 years, and 261 (48.6%) were female. The right subclavian vein was the preferred insertion site. Fourteen patients developed early complications and 11 developed late complications. Arterial puncture was the most common early complication, while catheter-related infection was the most common late complication. The age, sex, and body mass index of the patients were not independent risk factors for developing complications. Early complications increased as the number of puncture attempts did (p=0.034) and developed significantly less when ultrasound guidance was used during insertion (p=0.011). CONCLUSION: The risk of developing complications was not affected by patient's age or sex. In addition, body mass index was not shown to be an independent risk factor for patients developing complications. It may be concluded from the study that early complications in particular can be reduced with ultrasound-guided implantation.

Foley catheter technique for the extraction of coins lodged in the upper esophagus of children.

INTRODUCTION: Coins are the most commonly ingested foreign bodies in children. They usually become lodged in the upper oesophagus and should be managed immediately. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the characteristics and outcomes of patients with coins lodged in the upper oesophagus, who underwent coin removal using a silicone Foley balloon catheter without fluoroscopy or anaesthesia and evaluate the safety of the procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients who were admitted from January 2007 to December 2022 for coins lodged in the oesophagus and extracted with silicone Foley balloon catheter without anestehesia were evaluated retrospectively. We focused on the patient characteristics and clinical presentations, and the treatment safety, efficacy, and outcomes. RESULTS: 773 patients (416 male, 357 female), with a mean age of 3.5 years (range 6 months to 16 years), who ingested coin and extracted with Foley catether is included. The majority of patients (n = 728, 94.17%) were successfully managed by silicone Foley balloon catheter extraction. Our overall success was 94.17%, with 88.30% of coins retrieved and 5.9% pushed into the stomach. Patients who were successfully treated with Foley catheter were discharged on the same day except for 7 (0.90%) who had minimal bleeding. Only 45 (5.82%) patients required oesophagoscopy in the operating room and these patients were kept overnight for clinical follow-up, without any further interventions. CONCLUSION: A Foley balloon catheter can be used to safely and effectively remove coins that are lodged in the upper oesophagus avoiding the risk of general anesthesia.

Is the increased ozone dosage key factor for its anti-inflammatory effect in an experimental model of mesenteric ischemia?

BACKGROUND: Ischemia/reperfusion injury of the intestines is a severe surgical condition. This study aimed to reveal ozone therapy effects with relatively increased ozone dosage in a created ischemia/reperfusion injury model. METHODS: In this study, 24 albino Wistar rats were examined in three groups. Rats in the control group (CG, n=8) underwent only a laparotomy. In the sham group (SG, n=8) and ozone group (OG, n=8), the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) of the rats was occluded for 1 h. After deoccluding the SMA, the abdomen was closed, physiological saline was infused intraperitoneally in the SG, and an increased ozone/oxygen mixture dose (from 0.7 mg/kg to 1 mg/kg) was infused intraperitoneally in the OG. Small intestine samples were obtained at the 24th h for histopathological examination of intestinal mucosal injury and evaluated according to the Chiu score. In addition, Malondialdehyde and Myeloperoxidase levels were evaluated for oxidant levels, whereas, Glutathione (GSH) enzyme activity was measured to evaluate the tissue antioxidant system. RESULTS: Histopathologically, the Chiu score was the lowest in the CG. It was lower in the OG compared to the SG showing the ameliorating effect of ozone on the intestinal mucosa. Chiu score in the OG was higher compared to that in the CG, but not statistically significant. A significantly higher GSH level was observed in the OG compared to the SG, proving antioxidant activity. CONCLUSION: In this experimental model of ischemia/reperfusion in rats, treatment with an increased ozone level decreased the inflammatory process through antioxidant mechanisms and reduced intestinal mucosal damage. However, the effectiveness of ozone therapy depends on its dosages.

Can serum soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor be an effective biomarker in comparing the inflammatory response between laparoscopic and open appendectomy?

Introduction: The inflammatory response after laparoscopy and laparotomy has been compared in studies in adults, but only a few studies have compared the immune response between laparoscopy and laparotomy in children. Aim: To compare open and laparoscopic appendectomies regarding a new biomarker, suPAR, to evaluate the inflammatory response. Material and methods: Patients between 3 and 17 years of age who were admitted to the pediatric surgery department and scheduled for appendectomy due to appendicitis were enrolled in the investigation. The patients were randomized to receive either laparoscopic (n = 20) or conventional open appendectomy (n = 20). The primary outcome was a change in preoperative and postoperative suPAR levels. The secondary outcomes were the white blood cell count, lymphocytes, neutrophils, platelets, C-reactive protein level, appendix diameter, symptoms, symptom duration, surgical complications, operative time, rescue analgesics, hospital stay, and family satisfaction. Results: The mean age of the patients undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy was 10.55 ±2.743 (3-17) years. The mean age of the patients undergoing open appendectomy was 11.40 ±3.515 (3-17) years. A statistically significant difference was found when the postoperative suPAR values between the two groups were compared (p = 0.048). The operative time and hospital stay in the laparoscopic group were significantly shorter than those in the open group (p = 0.001, p = 0.047). Conclusions: Laparoscopic appendectomy is associated with a shorter operative time, a shorter hospital stay, and a smaller inflammatory response caused by surgical stress than open appendectomy. suPAR is an effective marker for comparing postoperative inflammatory stress between open and closed appendectomies.

A rare cause of intestinal obstruction in children: signet-ring cell adenocarcinoma of the colon.

BACKGROUND: Signet-ring cell adenocarcinoma of the colon is well-recognized in adult patients who are extremely rare and not well-documented in children. Our study aims to raise awareness about this rare disease and its long-term outcomes. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated patients with signet-ring cell colon adenocarcinoma. RESULTS: Six patients, three boys and three girls, with a mean age of 14.83 (range, 13-17 years), presented with signs of intesti-nal obstruction and were diagnosed with signet-ring cell colon adenocarcinoma. All patients had air-fluid levels on abdominal X-ray. Abdominal ultrasonography of all patients revealed subileus. Abdominal computed tomography was performed in five patients, and pre-operative colonoscopy was conducted in two patients before the emergency intervention. All of the patients underwent emergent exploratory laparotomy with the preliminary diagnosis of acute abdomen. In two patients, debulking surgery followed by a stoma was performed. The remaining four patients were treated with anastomosis following intestinal resection. All girls had metastases on the ovary. One of the patients died due to the burden of multiple metastases in the early period, and three died in the sixth post-operative year. We have been following the remaining two patients since then. CONCLUSION: Although signet-ring cell carcinomas (SRCCs) are rare, they should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen and intestinal obstruction in pediatric patients. Despite early diagnosis and treatment, SRCC has a poor prognosis in the pediatric population.

Long-term 10-year comparison of girls with congenital adrenal hyperplasia who underwent early and late feminizing genitoplasty.

OBJECTIVES: The appropriate time to perform feminizing genitoplasty in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) with the 46, XX genotype is still debatable. The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship between age at surgery and long-term surgical outcomes of patients who underwent feminizing genitoplasty. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 14 patients with CAH and 46, XX genotypes with feminizing genitoplasty (clitoroplasty + vaginoplasty) between 2005 and 2022. The patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 consisted of seven girls (n = 7/14) who have been operated before the age of 2 years. Group 2 consisted of seven girls (n = 7/14) who have been operated after the age of 2 years. The two groups are compared regarding anatomical assessments, overall cosmetic results, need for additional intervention using Creighton's criteria. Additionally, the cosmetical satisfaction of the patients/parents is questioned. RESULTS: The mean age of the girls was 32.42 months (10-96 months) during operation time. The mean age of Group 1 patients (n = 7/14) who have been operated before the age of 2 years was 11.71 months (10-19 months). The mean age of Group 2 patients (n = 7/14) who have been operated after the age of 2 years was 53.14 months (36-96 months). The mean follow-up time was 10.57 years (3-18 years). There was no statistically significant difference between those operated on before and after two years in terms of anatomical assessments, overall cosmetic results and patient/parent satisfaction except the need for additional intervention (p = 0.049). In Group1 (operation age < 2 years old), five out of seven (71.42%) patients needed additional major surgery (four urogenital sinus re-mobilization, one redo-clitoroplasty). Those who received additional major surgery were the ones who were not satisfied. In Group 2 (operation age > 2 years old), two patients out of seven patients (28.57%) received major surgery (two redo-urethroplasties) and those patients were not satisfied. When patient/parent satisfaction was compared with additional surgical intervention, as expected, patients'/parents' satisfaction increased as major surgical intervention decreased. This was statistically significant (p = 0.007). The main source of dissatisfaction was repeated surgery among the parents. CONCLUSIONS: The possibility of this additional surgical intervention increases, and patient/parent satisfaction decreases in patients below the age of 2 years. The corrective surgeries can be differed until the gender identity of the patient matures and the patient autonomy in deciding whether this surgery should occur.

Endoscopic pilonidal sinus treatment (EPSIT) versus sinus laser therapy (SiLaT) for sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus.

Introduction: New surgical treatment methods are being investigated in sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus disease. Minimal invasive methods such as endoscopic pilonidal sinus treatment (EPSIT) and sinus laser therapy (SiLaT) have promising results and advantages of laparoscopic surgery. Aim: To compare the efficiency and safety of EPSIT with SiLaT. Material and methods: Seventy-three patients with pilonidal sinus who had undergone EPSIT or SiLaT within 2 years were evaluated retrospectively. Data of patients' demographics, complications and postoperative course were collected and compared between the two groups. Results: We analyzed seventy-three patients who underwent EPSIT or SiLaT, with a mean age of 23.4 ±8.4 (12-46) years and body mass index (BMI) of 25.5 ±4.5 (18-38) kg/m2. Among them, 36 patients (26 males, ten females) underwent EPSIT and 37 patients (27 males, ten females) underwent SiLaT. Mean operative time was similar for both groups (32.3 ±14.8 vs. 31.0 ±14.8; p = 0.757). Early complications (minimal bleeding) were recorded in 2 patients in the SiLaT group. The duration of analgesic use was significantly lower in the EPSIT group compared to the SiLaT group (1.3 ±0.5 (1-3) vs. 1.9 ±1.1 (1-5); p = 0.005). The mean postoperative time of total wound healing was similar for both groups: 23.6 ±14.7 (12-90) vs. 25.2 ±14.5 (14-90) days (p = 0.385). There was no significant difference in the average time of return to total daily activity (3.4 ±0.9 (2-5) vs. 3.6 ±1.2 (2-7) days, p = 0.679). There were no significant differences between the groups regarding late postoperative complications (recurrence: 7). Conclusions: Both methods have similar early and late complications. The duration of need for analgesic usage was shorter in EPSIT patients.

An Evaluation of the Efficacy of Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index in Predicting Enterobius-Associated Appendicitis Preoperatively.

Objective Our study aimed to retrospectively evaluate Enterobius-associated appendicitis cases and compare them with acute appendicitis cases in terms of parameters such as the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), C-reactive protein (CRP)-to-lymphocyte ratio (CLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII). We primarily aimed to evaluate the utility of SII in the differential diagnosis of Enterobius-associated appendicitis. Methods The appendectomy specimens of pediatric patients who were operated on for acute appendicitis between June 2016 and August 2022 were retrospectively evaluated. Enterobius-associated appendicitis cases were included for analysis. All patients were evaluated regarding age, gender, blood count, surgery, and pathology reports. Pathology reports were evaluated for the presence of histological signs of acute appendicitis. The patients were classified into an Enterobius-associated appendicitis group and a regular acute appendicitis group. CRP, white blood cell (WBC), red cell distribution width (RDW), neutrophils, lymphocytes, NLR, monocytes, eosinophils, platelet (PLT), PLR, CLR, and SII values were compared between the two groups. Results Eleven cases of Enterobius-associated appendicitis were identified out of 430 total cases (2.55%) examined. The mean age of the group with acute appendicitis was 12.83 ±3.16 years, while the mean age of the group with Enterobius-associated appendicitis was 8.55 ±2.54 years. There was no statistically significant difference in terms of CRP, WBC, RDW, lymphocytes, neutrophils, NLR, monocytes, eosinophils, PLT, PLR, and CLR values between the two groups (p>0.05). However, when the SII values of the participants were analyzed, it was observed that the SII values of the participants in the regular appendicitis group were significantly higher than those of the participants in the Enterobius group (p<0.05). Among the 11 Enterobius-associated appendicitis patients, seven appendectomy specimens revealed no inflammation and were regarded as negative appendectomy (63.63%). Conclusion This is the first study to demonstrate the utility of preoperative SII evaluation in Enterobius-associated appendicitis. SII is a simple, easy-to-calculate indicator of Enterobius-associated appendicitis and aids in the preoperative differential diagnosis of acute appendicitis.

Comparison of hyperbaric oxygen and ozone treatment for ischemia/re-perfusion injury in an experimental testicular torsion model.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to compare the effects of medical ozone (MO) therapy and hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy in an experimental testicular torsion model by measuring the oxidant and antioxidant markers and examining the histopathological tissue damage findings. METHODS: Thirty-two Wistar rats are used and are divided into four groups; (1) sham group (SG), (2) only ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) by testicular torsion, (3) HBO administered group, and (4) MO administered group. No torsion was conducted in the SG. In all other groups, rats underwent testicular torsion followed by detorsion to create an I/R model. After I/R, HBO was injected in the HBO group, and in the MO group, intraperitoneal ozone was applied. At the end of 1 week, testicular tissues were obtained for biochemical analyzes and histopathological examinations. Biochemically, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured for oxidant activity, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels were measured for antioxidant activity. Furthermore, the testicles were evaluated histopathologically. RESULTS: Both HBO and MO have significantly decreased MDA levels, compared with sham and I/R groups, resulting in decreased oxidation effects. The antioxidant GSH-Px levels in the HBO and MO groups were significantly higher than in the sham and I/R groups. In addition, the antioxidant SOD levels in the HBO group were significantly higher than sham, I/R, and MO groups. Therefore, the antioxidant effect of HBO was observed to be superior to MO, specifically considering SOD levels. Histopathologically, there was no significant difference between the groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: The study may extrapolate that both HBO and MO are antioxidant agents that can be used in testicular torsion. HBO treatment might improve the cellular antioxidant capacity due to increased antioxidant marker levels more than MO therapy. However, further studies are needed with a larger sample size.

Laparoscopic Repair of Morgagni Hernia in Children.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate our patients who underwent laparoscopic-assisted transabdominal repair for Morgagni hernia (MH). METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent laparoscopy-assisted transabdominal repair using loop sutures for MH between March 2010 and April 2021. Demographic data, symptoms, operative findings, operation methods, and postoperative complications of the patients were reviewed. RESULTS: A total of 22 patients with MH were treated with laparoscopy-assisted transabdominal repair using loop suture. There were 6 girls (27.2%) and 16 boys (72.7%). Two patients had Down syndrome, and two patients had cardiac defects (secundum atrial septal defect, patent foramen ovale). One patient had a V-P shunt due to hydrocephalus. One patient had cerebral palsy. The mean operation time was 45 min (30-86 min). The hernia sac was not removed, and a patch was not used in any of the patients. The mean hospitalization time was 1.7 days (1-5 days). One patient's defect was very large, and another patient's liver was densely attached to the liver sac, causing bleeding during dissection. In total, two patients were converted to open surgery. There was no recurrence during the follow-up. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopy-assisted transabdominal repair is an efficient and safe choice for the repair of MH. Leaving the hernia sac does not increase the recurrence, so there is no need to dissect the sac.

Effects of ultrasound guided caudal epidural and transversus abdominis plane block on postoperative analgesia in pediatric inguinal hernia repair surgeries.

INTRODUCTION: Ultrasound guided caudal epidural block (CEB) and transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) are two techniques which are used for pain management after inguinal hernia surgeries (IHR). CEB is accepted as gold standard for lower abdominal surgeries while TAPB is more popular. OBJECTIVE: It is aimed to compare ultrasound guided CEB and TAPB for postoperative pain scores, additional analgesic requirement and chronic pain development in pediatric bilateral open IHR. STUDY DESIGN: Seventy patients aged 1-7 years undergoing bilateral open IHR were included in this prospective, randomized, double-blinded study. Patients were randomized into group T (Bilateral TAPB) and group C (CEB). Postoperative FLACC (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability) scores were evaluated for pain density. Additional analgesic requirement, length of hospital stay was also recorded. Chronic pain is evaluated within a subgroup by using "revised Bieri faces pain scale" in the postoperative second month. RESULTS: Postoperative 15th, 30th, 45th min, first, second hour FLACC scores were similar in both groups (P > 0.05). In group C, FLACC scores at postoperative sixth and 24th were significantly higher than group T (1 (0-5) vs 0 (0-2); 1 (0-3) vs 0 (0-2), respectively; P < 0.001). Additional analgesic requirement in the postoperative 24 h was found to be statistically higher in Group C (56.7%) than in Group T (20%) (P < 0.01). Chronic pain development did not differ between the groups (P > 0.05). Length of hospital stay was found to be shorter in patients in Group T compared to patients in Group C [10 (5-14) vs 16 (5-18) hours, respectively; P < 0.01)]. DISCUSSION: Our results exhibited that TAPB and CEB for bilateral IHR have similar early analgesic efficacy in children. However; CEB patients experienced higher FLACC scores at the postoperative sixth and 24th hours, and the need for additional analgesics was higher and the length of hospital stay was longer comparing to TAPB. Of note, chronic pain was not observed in any of our subgroup patients (n = 21) who are older than four years. CONCLUSION: For bilateral IHR, US-guided CEB and TAPB have similar analgesic efficacy in the first six hours, postoperatively, However, TAPB appears to be slightly superior than CEB in terms of subacute pain and length of stay which is still not clinically distinctive.

The effect of postoperative ventilation strategies on postoperative complications and outcomes in patients with esophageal atresia: Results from the Turkish Esophageal Atresia Registry.

OBJECTIVES: Postoperative ventilatory strategies in patients with esophageal atresia (EA) and tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) may have an impact on early postoperative complications. Our national Esophageal Atresia Registry was evaluated to define a possible relationship between the type and duration of respiratory support on postoperative complications and outcome. STUDY DESIGN: Among the data registered by 31 centers between 2015 and 2021, patients with esophago-esophageal anastomosis (EEA)/tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) were divided into two groups; invasive ventilatory support (IV) and noninvasive ventilatory support and/or oxygen support (NIV-OS). The demographic findings, gestational age, type of atresia, associated anomalies, and genetic malformations were evaluated. We compared the type of repair, gap length, chest tube insertion, follow-up times, tensioned anastomosis, postoperative complications, esophageal dilatations, respiratory problems requiring treatment after the operation, and mortality rates. RESULTS: Among 650 registered patients, 502 patients with EEA/TEF repair included the study. Four hundred and seventy of patients require IV and 32 of them had NIV-OS treatment. The IV group had lower mean birth weights and higher incidence of respiratory problems when compared to NIV-OS group. Also, NIV-OS group had significantly higher incidence of associated anomalies than IV groups. The rates of postoperative complications and mortality were not different between the IV and NIV-OS groups. CONCLUSION: We demonstrated that patients who required invasive ventilation had a higher incidence of low birth weight and respiratory morbidity. We found no relation between mode of postoperative ventilation and surgical complications. Randomized controlled trials and clinical guidelines are needed to define the best type of ventilation strategy in children with EA/TEF.

Trichobezoar presenting as an acute abdominal obstruction in a 17-year-old girl.

Trichobezoars are hairballs that combine with food residue in the digestive tract as a result of ingesting hair. A 17-year-old girl was admitted to the emergency department with abdominal pain and vomiting for 3 days. She had been having digestive difficulty and bloating for the previous 2 months. An abdominal radiograph demonstrated air-fluid levels consistent with ileus, and an ultrasound showed hyperechoic material in the stomach and ileum. Computed tomography demonstrated images of trapped air which was considered diagnostic of a bezoar. At laparotomy, a large mass was removed from the stomach. As the bezoar extended through the pylorus and duodenum and there were mobile masses palpable in the ileum, it required a second incision to remove them. For some years she had had a habit of swallowing hair which she found on her pillow and there was a history of an obsessive personality trait and hyperactivity for which she agreed to attend a psychiatric clinic.Abbreviations: BMI: body mass index; CT: computed tomography; Hb: haemoglobin; IV: intravenous; WHO: World Health Organization.

The effect of hydrogen sulfide on ischemi̇a /reperfusion injury in an experimental testicular torsion model.

INTRODUCTION: Testicular torsion is an acute pediatric surgical emergency requiring rapid diagnosis to prevent the permanent ischaemic damage of the testicles. Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) have shown to cure tissue damage and has a role in the prevention of I/R damage. We aimed to evaluate the effect of H2S in testicular torsion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighteen male, Wistar albino rats were divided into 3 groups. The sham group which is applied surgical stress. The ischemia/reperfusion group (I/R) which detorsion performed 1 h later than testicular torsion application. I/R + NaHS treatment group, NaHS solution was injected intraperitoneally for 1 week. On the 7th day of the detorsion all left testes were fixed in Bouin solution and sent to Pathology Department for histopathological examination. All right testes were washed with normal saline, dried in a sterile way and stored in - 80 °C deepfreeze up to the date of biochemical processes. Testicular tissues were obtained for the detection of myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), AOPP (advanced oxidation protein product) for oxidant markers and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD),glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities for antioxidant markers and histopathological exploration. RESULTS: The effects of NaHs administration on oxidation were evaluated by determination of testicular MPO, MDA and AOPP levels. Increased testicular MPO (58.6%) activity was observed in the I/R group compared to the sham group. Following NaHS treatment, MPO (26.7%) activity was significantly decreased in rats exposed to I/R injury (Figure 1). MDA levels did not alter. Increases in AOPP (20.9%) levels were observed in the I/R group. NaHS treatment resulted in significant decreases in AOPP (25.1%) levels in testes tissues of rats exposed to I/R injury. The effects of NaHS treatment on antioxidant system FRAP, SOD, GSH and GSH-Px activities were evaluated. GSH levels were significantly increased in the IR + NaHS group compared to the I/R group. In histopathological examination degeneration of seminiferous tubules and spermatogenic cells were observed in the I/R group. After NaHS treatment, normal spermatogenic activity with many spermatozoa in the lumen of most seminiferous tubules were observed in the I/R injured rats. According to Johnsen's scoring (JS), the I/R group was significantly decreased compared to the sham group. JS values for the I/R + NaHS group were significantly increased compared to the I/R group. CONCLUSION: Our study supports that ischemia/reperfusion injury plays an important role in the testicular torsion injury, and it is a pioneer study showing that H2S may have a potential for therapeutic effect. The limitation of this work is this is an experimental study with limited number of animals. According to the results of our study, hydrogen sulfide treatment has beneficial effects on biochemical and histopathological results of testicular injury in testic torsion.

Outcome of Very Low and Low Birth Weight Infants with Esophageal Atresia: Results of the Turkish Esophageal Atresia Registry.

INTRODUCTION: The data of the Turkish Esophageal Atresia Registry (TEAR) was evaluated to define the outcome of very low birth weight (VLBW) and low BW (LWB) infants with esophageal atresia (EA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The data registered by 24 centers between 2014 and 2018 were evaluated for demographic features, prenatal findings, associated anomalies, surgical treatment, and outcome. Patients were enrolled in three groups according to their BWs (VLBW <1,500 g), LWB = 1,500-2,500 g), and normal BW (NBW; >2,500 g). RESULTS: Among the 389 cases, there were 37 patients (9.5%) in the VLBW group, 165 patients (42.4%) in the LBW group, and 187 patients (48.1%) in the NBW group. Prenatal diagnosis rates were similar among the three groups (29.7, 34.5, and 24.6%, respectively). The standard primary anastomosis was achieved at a significantly higher rate in NWB cases than in the other groups (p < 0.05). In patients with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), patients of the NBW group had significantly higher rates of full oral feedings, when compared with VLBW and LBW cases (p < 0.05). At the end of the first year, when we evaluate all patients, the number of cases with fistula recanalization and esophageal anastomotic strictures (AS) requiring esophageal dilatation was similar among the groups. The weight and height measurements at 6 months and 1 year of age of the survivors were similar in all the groups. The overall mortality rate was significantly higher in the VLBW and LBW groups, when compared with the NBW patients, even in patients with tension-free anastomosis (p < 0.05). The incidence of the associated anomalies was 90.6% in cases with mortality, which was significantly higher than in survivors (59.6%; p < 0.05). According to Spitz's classification, the survival rate was 87.1% in class I, 55.3% in class II, and 16.7% in class III. The most common causes of mortality were associated with cardiovascular diseases, pneumonia, and sepsis. CONCLUSION: The national data of TEAR demonstrates that the developmental and feeding parameters are better in NBW patients. Although VLBW patients have higher risk of developing fistula canalization than the LBW and NBW groups, long-term complications, such as anastomotic strictures, weight, and height values, after 1 year are similar in both groups. According to our results, associated anomalies and LBWs are still significant risk factors for mortality in cases with EA.

The effect of azygos vein preservation on postoperative complications after esophageal atresia repair: Results from the Turkish Esophageal Atresia Registry.

AIM: Preservation of the azygos vein (AV) maintains normal venous drainage of the mediastinum and decreases postoperative congestion. The modification of esophageal atresia (EA) repair by preserving AV may prevent postoperative complications and may lead to better outcomes. The data from the Turkish Esophageal Atresia Registry (TEAR) were evaluated to define the effect of AV preservation on postoperative complications of patients with EA. METHODS: Data from TEAR for a period of five years were evaluated. Patients were enrolled into two groups according to the preservation of AV. Patients with divided (DAV) and preserved AV (PAV) were evaluated for demographic and operative features and postoperative complications for the first year of life. The DAV and PAV groups were compared according to the postoperative complications, such as fistula recanalization, symptomatic strictures, anastomotic leaks, total number of esophageal dilatations, and anti-reflux surgery. In addition, respiratory problems, which required treatment, were compared between groups. RESULTS: Among 502 registered patients; the data from 315 patients with the information of AV ligation were included. The male female ratio of DAV (n = 271) and PAV (n = 44) groups were 150:121 and 21:23, respectively (p > 0.05). The mean body weight, height, gestational age, and associated anomalies were similar in both groups (p > 0.05). The esophageal repair with thoracotomy was significantly higher in DAV group, when compared to the PAV group (p < 0.05). The rates of primary anastomosis and tensioned anastomosis were similar in both groups (p > 0.05). There was no difference between DAV and PAV groups for anastomotic leaks, symptomatic anastomotic strictures, fistula recanalization, and the requirement for anti-reflux surgery (p > 0.05). The rate of respiratory problems, which required treatment, was significantly higher in the DAV group (p < 0.05) CONCLUSION: The data in the TEAR demonstrated that preserving the AV during EA repair led to no significant advantage on postoperative complications, with exception of respiratory problems. AV should be preserved as much as possible to maintain a normal mediastinal anatomy and to avoid respiratory complications.

Can serum soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor be an effective marker in the diagnosis of appendicitis and differentiation of complicated cases?

BACKGROUND: Soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) is a new biomarker of inflammation level. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether suPAR levels could be useful to detect acute appendicitis and to differentiate uncomplicated appendicitis (UA) from complicated appendicitis (CA). METHODS: We prospectively studied 105 patients consisting of 40 UA cases, 40 CA cases, and 25 control patients. Blood samples were collected to measure suPAR level, C-reactive protein level, leukocyte counts, neutrophil counts, and neutrophil percentages preoperatively. RESULTS: Median values of suPAR level, C-reactive protein level, leukocyte counts, neutrophil counts, and neutrophil percentages in UA and CA were significantly higher than control patients. suPAR levels of the UA and CA groups showed a statistically significant difference (p=0.016). CONCLUSION: The current study demonstrated that serum suPAR concentrations can be helpful in differentiating CA from UA and in diagnosing acute appendicitis.

Long-term outcomes of six patients after partial internal biliary diversion for progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis.

BACKGROUND: Partial internal biliary diversion (PIBD) is an alternative approach for the treatment of devastating pruritus in patients with progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC). In these patients quality of life can be improved and progression of liver disease can be delayed while waiting for liver transplantation. The aim of our study was to evaluate six patients with PFIC who have undergone PIBD in long-term follow-up. METHODS: Retrospective review of the records of six patients who underwent PIBD for PFIC between 2008 and 2010 was conducted to evaluate age, growth, clinical and laboratory studies for long-term outcome. RESULTS: Serum postoperative bile acid levels were reduced from a mean 340.1µmol/L (range 851-105) preoperatively to a mean of 96.3µmol/L at postoperative fifth year. The difference between pre- and postoperative bile acid levels was statistically significant (p=0.018). AST decreased from 79.1U/L (range 43-150U/L) to 64.6U/L (range 18-172U/L), ALT decreased from 102.8U/L (range 35-270U/L) to 84.6U/L and total bilirubin decreased from 2.9µmol/L (range 0.35-6.4µmol/L) to 1.53µmol/L (range 0.3-2.4). Again, the decrease in total bilirubin levels was significant (p=0.043). Pruritus was diminished from a mean of +4 (range 4-4) preoperatively to a mean of +2 (4-0). One patient who underwent liver transplantation owing to relapsing pruritus died from postoperative sepsis in the early postoperative period at the fifth year after PBID. Five symptom-free patients have not required liver transplantation at a mean period of 6.1±0.83years (5.1-7.0years) follow-up. CONCLUSION: PBID is an effective surgical procedure in the long-term and can delay the need for liver transplantation in children with PFIC by reducing jaundice and pruritus.

Is there a determining factor that predicts mortality in patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia?

AIM: This study was designed to investigate the factors affecting the prognosis in neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) who were treated in our clinic. These factors included prenatal lung-head ratio (LHR), prenatal stomach and liver presence in the thorax, blood gases in the first 24 h and the modified ventilation index (MVI). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was carried out retrospectively in 30 neonates with prenatally diagnosed left CDH who were treated in our clinic between January 2007 and 2013. Data were collected, evaluated, and statistically analyzed for gender, birth weight, gestational age, prenatal LHR, prenatal presence of stomach and liver in the thorax, postnatal initial blood gases in the first 24 h and MVI. RESULTS: The median LHR for non-survivors was 1.49 and for survivors 1.51. No statistically significant difference in LHR was detected between survivors and non-survivors. In 19 neonates, prenatal ultrasonography (USG) revealed intrathoracic stomach, and 9 of these infants died. Intrathoracic liver was seen in 15 neonates, and 9 of these died. A statistically significant difference was not found between survivors and non-survivors in the intrathoracic liver or intrathoracic stomach neonates. A comparison between the non-survivors and survivors showed a median pH value of 7.10 in non-survivors and 7.24 in survivors (p = 0.002). The median PaCO2 value was 69.4 mm Hg in non-survivors and 51.9 mm Hg in survivors (p = 0.01). There were statistically significant differences in pH and PaCO2 values. The median value of MVI was 33 in survivors and 100 in non-survivors. There was a statistically significant difference between overall non-survivors and survivors in the MVI value (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Based on the findings, postnatal pH, and PaCO2 and MVI values are favorable prognostic factors in CDH in our selected group of patients.

Neonatal perforated appendicitis in incarcerated inguinal hernia in the differential diagnosis of testis torsion.

Appendicitis in newborns is uncommon and difficult to diagnose. Reports on neonatal appendicitis subsequent to inguinal hernia incarceration are exceptionally rare. We present the case of a 26-day-old infant with perforated appendicitis due to incarceration of a right inguinal hernia, mimicking right testicular torsion.