Preliminary Results With a Novel Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene-based Pulmonary Valved Conduit.

Background: A novel polymeric pulmonary valved conduit, resistant to calcification and structural valve deterioration, may provide a more durable therapy option for the pediatric population by preventing loss of right ventricular function and increasing freedom from valve-related reintervention and mortality.

Methods: This was a prospective, multicenter, single-arm study evaluating safety and performance of an investigational novel expanded polytetrafluoroethylene-based valve. Patients met study inclusion/exclusion criteria, had a signed informed consent, had pre- and postoperative evaluation via transthoracic echocardiography, and 6-month cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.

Ectopia Cordis Sternal Cleft Repair With Mandibular Distractors: A Follow-Up Case Report.

A neonate with thoracic ectopia cordis presented following an uncomplicated delivery. A mandibular distractor was placed to bridge the sternal cleft and retracted (reverse distractor activation) over 24 days to facilitate sternal closure. Follow-up at five years postoperatively demonstrated a well-healed sternum.

Use of a Rigid Bronchoscope as the Sole Prebypass Airway During Pediatric Tracheal Tumor Resection: A Case Report.

We describe the anesthetic and operative techniques utilized for a tracheal tumor resection in a pediatric patient with 95% tracheal occlusion. In prior tracheal tumor cases that dictated complete resection, our team had been able to comfortably bypass a tumor with an endotracheal tube. In this case, we could not intubate past the tumor.

Influence of Fetal Diagnosis on Management of Vascular Rings.

Background: Fetal diagnoses of vascular rings have been increasing. We compared management strategies and outcomes of infants with fetal diagnosis with those with postnatal diagnosis to inform recommendations regarding optimal management.

Methods: A retrospective review was performed of vascular ring operations from January 2000 to June 2019.

Variability in clinical decision-making for ventricular assist device implantation in pediatrics.

Background: Minimal data exist on clinical decision-making in VAD implantation in pediatrics. This study aims to identify areas of consensus/variability among pediatric VAD physicians in determining eligibility and factors that guide decision-making.

Methods: An 88-item survey with clinical vignettes was sent to 132 pediatric HT cardiologists and surgeons at 37 centers.

Contemporary ventilatory strategies for surgical patients.

Respiratory failure affects a significant percentage of critically ill children, necessitating both invasive and non-invasive respiratory support. As the outcomes of these patients have improved, children with higher acuity and more complex respiratory pathophysiology require mechanical ventilation. Despite growing understanding of lung-protective strategies and ventilation induced lung injury, certain patients still require harmful ventilatory settings with conventional mechanical ventilation (CMV).