Prognostic role of tumor-head volume ratio in fetal sacrococcygeal teratoma.

Objective: To evaluate the ability of a tumor-head volume ratio to predict outcome and incidence of hydrops in fetuses with sacrococcygeal teratoma.

Methods: Seventy-one sonograms were reviewed retrospectively from 28 fetuses with sacrococcygeal teratoma managed in our institution. Head volume (HV) and total tumor volume were calculated from sonograms.

Magnetic Mini-Mover Procedure for pectus excavatum: I. Development, design, and simulations for feasibility and safety.

Background/purpose: Correction of pectus excavatum (PE) results in measurable improvement in lung capacity and cardiac performance as well as improved appearance and self-image. The Nuss and modified Ravitch approaches attempt to correct the chest wall deformity by forcing the sternum forward in 1 step and holding it in place using a metal strut. The initial operation requires extensive manipulation under general anesthesia and results in postoperative pain, requiring hospitalization and regional anesthesia.

Rapunzel syndrome with a fatal outcome in a neglected child.

The "Rapunzel" syndrome (a trichobezoar with a long tail extending from the stomach to the small bowel) is an uncommon disease. It is related to severe complications but rarely associates to a fatal outcome. We report a case of a 5-year-old girl admitted at the emergency department in cardiorespiratory arrest whose autopsy disclosed an ileal perforation that is caused by a long bezoar extending from the stomach to the small bowel.