Does thoracoscopy have advantages over open surgery for asymptomatic congenital lung malformations? An analysis of 1626 resections.

Aim: The apparent incidence of antenatally diagnosed congenital lung malformations (CLM) is rising (1 in 3000), and the majority undergo elective resection even if asymptomatic. Thoracoscopy has been popularized, but early series report high conversion rates and significant complications. We aimed to perform systematic review/meta-analysis of outcomes of thoracoscopic vs open excision of asymptomatic CLMs.

Antenatally diagnosed right-sided stomach (dextrogastria): A rare rotational anomaly.

Aim: Antenatal detection of right-sided stomach (dextrogastria) is rare, and its significance in regards to intestinal rotation is unclear. We aimed to review all cases of antenatally-diagnosed dextrogastria in our regional fetal medicine unit over 10years.

Methods: A retrospective case-note review of patients identified from a prospectively-maintained database was performed.

Anatomy and physiology of the peritoneum.

The peritoneum is commonly encountered in abdominal surgery. The development and rotation of the primitive gut tube lead to the normal adult arrangement of the peritoneal cavity, which forms bloodless planes allowing the retroperitoneal portions of the bowel to be safely mobilised. The arrangement of the peritoneum also forms spaces in which infected fluid or pus can collect.