Antenatally Detected Choledochal Malformation: What Are We Waiting For?

Introduction: An increasing proportion of congenital choledochal malformation (CCM) are being detected on antenatal ultrasound. However, the actual timing of its surgical correction remains controversial with some series showing an excess of complications the earlier the operation. The aim of this study was to characterize the pathophysiological aspects of this cohort from the perspective of age at surgery in order to inform a more rational basis for clinical decision-making.

The AST-to-Platelet Ratio Index (APRi) at Kasai Portoenterostomy: Standing the Test of Time.

Aims: The outcomes following surgical treatment of infants with biliary atresia (BA) varies across the world with many possible confounding factors. APRi (AST-to-platelet ratio index) is a simple surrogate marker of liver fibrosis and we sought to determine its long-term relationship (if any) with outcome post-Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE).

Methods: Prospectively acquired database (Jan 1998-Dec 2021).

Advances in understanding of biliary atresia pathogenesis and progression - a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.

Introduction: Biliary atresia is a potentially fatal condition of the bile ducts - both intra- and extrahepatic, for which we have no cure. Though principally a cholestatic condition, much of its pathology stems from its tendency to aggressively induce liver fibrosis and ultimately cirrhosis, only partially restrained by the portoenterostomy.

Areas Covered: This review is based on the current literature exploring the heterogeneous nature of biliary atresia.

Insights into the pathophysiology and classification of type 4 choledochal malformation.

Introduction: Type 4 choledochal malformations (CMs) can be defined as extra- and intrahepatic biliary dilatation. They are of uncertain etiology but make up about 20% of most series. The aim of this study was to investigate the pathophysiology and their natural history following surgical intervention.

Enteric neurospheres are not specific to neural crest cultures: implications for neural stem cell therapies.

Objectives: Enteric neural stem cells provide hope of curative treatment for enteric neuropathies. Current protocols for their harvesting from humans focus on the generation of 'neurospheres' from cultures of dissociated gut tissue. The study aims to better understand the derivation, generation and composition of enteric neurospheres.

Neonatal stomas: does a separate incision avoid complications and a full laparotomy at closure?

Purpose: Enterostomy formation is a common outcome in emergency neonatal laparotomy. No consensus exists regarding optimal stoma site. This study aims to identify incidence of complications and closure details related to position of stomas.

Intestinal atresia in association with gastroschisis: a 26-year review.

Purpose: We reviewed our experience with gastroschisis (GS) complicated by intestinal atresia over the last 26 years. Our aim was to determine the effect of different management strategies employed and the morbidity associated with this condition in our unit.

Methods: A retrospective casenote review was carried out.