Pneumoperitoneum in the Setting of Pneumatosis Intestinalis in Children: Is Surgery Always Indicated?

 Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is a condition in which multiple gas-filled cysts form within the wall of the gastrointestinal tract in either the subserosa or submucosa. The presence of pneumoperitoneum in the presence of PI can present a therapeutic dilemma. The aim of our study was to review our experience and management of this condition.

Comparison of intraabdominal abscess formation after laparoscopic and open appendicectomies in children.

Aim: Although laparoscopic appendicectomy (LA) is an accepted alternative to the open appendicectomy (OA) approach, it has been suggested that there is a higher incidence of intraabdominal abscesses (IAAs). Our aim was to determine the incidence of IAA in 3 pediatric surgical centers routinely practicing both techniques.

Methods: Data were collected retrospectively for pediatric patients undergoing LA or OA over an 8-year period.

[Stonefish stings: difficult analgesia and notable risk of complications].

Introduction: Marine activities and water sports in tropical countries entail some dangers. In our emergency department, stonefish (Synancae verrucosa) stings are second only to those by sea urchins among the 400 consultations a year for wounds by marine animals.

Method: We retrospectively collected data for all emergency department visits for stonefish stings over a 5-year period from 2001 through 2005.