Alimentary tract duplications in children: high incidence of associated anomalies
Y Gálvez1, R Skába, J Kalousová
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Motol Children's Hospital, Charles University, 2nd School of Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic.
Insights
Alimentary tract duplications (ATDs) are rare congenital anomalies. Associated malformations increase surgical complexity, morbidity, and mortality, necessitating thorough patient evaluation for optimal treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Congenital Anomalies
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
Background:
- Alimentary tract duplications (ATDs) are rare congenital anomalies affecting approximately 1 in 4500 newborns.
- Associated complex congenital anomalies present surgical challenges in ATD patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics of alimentary tract duplications (ATDs).
- To analyze associated anomalies in patients with ATDs.
- To understand the impact of associated anomalies on surgical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 24 patients diagnosed with ATD between 1990-2001.
- Review of medical charts from the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Motol Children's Hospital, Prague.
- Analysis of patient demographics, ATD types, associated malformations, and postoperative outcomes.
Main Results:
- 16 patients (67%) were diagnosed under 3 years old.
- Foregut, midgut, and hindgut duplications were observed in 8, 9, and 7 cases, respectively.
- Associated malformations were present in 54% of patients, with higher complication rates (53% vs. 9%) and one mortality.
Conclusions:
- Associated congenital malformations are common in ATD patients.
- Complexity of surgical repair in patients with associated anomalies may increase morbidity and mortality.
- Thorough examination for ATDs and associated defects is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and surgical planning.
Background:
Alimentary tract duplications (ATDs) are rare congenital anomalies affecting about 1 in 4500 newborns with a male/female ratio of 1.2 : 1. The presence of associated, sometimes complex congenital anomalies can pose a challenge to surgeons treating patients with ATDs. The aim of this work was to study the characteristics of ATDs and associated anomalies in our patients.
Methods:
Retrospective study. Medical charts of 24 patients (7 males, 17 females) diagnosed with ATD during the years 1990 - 2001 at the Department of Paediatric Surgery, Motol Children's Hospital in Prague, Czech Republic were reviewed.
Results:
Sixteen patients (67 %) were diagnosed at ages younger than 3 years. Eight cases were foregut duplications, 9 were midgut, and 7 hindgut anomalies. In 13 patients (54 %) associated malformations were documented. Eight patients (33 %) developed postoperative complications, 1 patient died. Complications were more frequent in the group of patients with associated anomalies (53 % vs. 9 %).
Conclusions:
Associated congenital malformations are frequently present in patients with ATDs. The complexity of the surgical repair of these anomalies may contribute to higher morbidity and mortality rates. A thorough examination to identify and characterise the presence of ATDs and associated congenital defects would provide appropriate diagnostic and surgical approaches for these patients.
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