Four cases of desmosis coli: severe chronic constipation, massive dilatation of the colon, and hypoperistalsis due to of changes in the colonic connective-tissue net.

We present four patients 5, 10, 12, and 17 years of age, each with a long history of severe constipation and hypoperistalsis of the gut. Three had partial or total resection of the colon, all had enterostomies, and only one maintains normal bowel function after reanastomosis. We report the clinical courses, radiologic findings, and operative procedures for all four cases.

Ultrasound in the diagnosis of fractures in children.

We compared the results of primary ultrasonographic examination of 163 children with 224 suspected fractures with the subsequent radiological findings. The aim was to assess the value of ultrasound in the diagnosis of fractures in children. We found a good correlation for fractures of the long bones of the upper and lower limbs.

[Omphalocele and gastroschisis. Outcome--complications--follow-up--quality of life].

From 1970 to 1998, 35 children with omphalocele (OC) and 31 with gastroschisis (GS) were treated at the Department of Paediatric Surgery at Lübeck Medical University. Forty of 43 survivors were examined in 1990, the data of 30 patients were renewed in 1999 and 12 new cases added. Total follow-up was 1-28 years.

Long-term results of treatment of single-system ectopic ureters.

Single-system ureteral ectopia (UE) encompasses a spectrum of malformations involving the bladder trigone, ureter, and kidney. The clinical presentation is variable, and both diagnostic and therapeutic problems are common. Reduced renal function in these patients may result from primary dysplasia, obstruction, vesicoureteral reflux, or recurrent infection.