How the training of ultrasonographers influences the certainty of prenatal detection of congenital malformations of interest to the pediatric surgeon.

Background: The training needed for doing obstetric ultrasounds is rarely reported. The aim of this study was to determine whether the training of the ultrasonographer influences the prenatal diagnostic certainty of some congenital malformations.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective evaluation of antepartum sonographic findings of newborn infants found ultimately to have a congenital anomaly in a tertiary level pediatric reference center.

Is colostomy closure without mechanical bowel preparation safe in pediatric patients? A randomized clinical trial.

Background: Mechanical bowel preparation (MBP) is largely used worldwide prior to colostomy closure in children, although its benefits are questioned by scientific evidence, and its use can cause adverse reactions. We hypothesized that colostomy closure procedures in children are not associated with increased complications (surgical site infection [SSI] and anastomotic leakage) when performed without MBP. Thus, we conducted a noninferiority trial to compare the safety and efficacy of colostomy takedown with and without MBP.

A Gastroschisis bundle: effects of a quality improvement protocol on morbidity and mortality.

Objective: Gastroschisis incidence is rising. Survival in developed countries is over 95%. However, in underdeveloped countries, mortality is higher than 15% often due to sepsis.

Predictive value of procalcitonin for intestinal ischemia and/or necrosis in pediatric patients with adhesive small bowel obstruction (ASBO).

Purpose: Evaluate serum procalcitonin (PCT) level as a predictor of intestinal ischemia or necrosis (IN) in patients with postoperative adhesive small bowel obstruction (ASBO).

Methods: Prospective cohort of consecutive patients with ASBO. Patients previously treated with antibiotics or septic were excluded.