Spectrum of Congenital Anomalies among Surgical Patients at a Tertiary Care Centre over 4 Years

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Congenital Anomalies
• Public Health

Background:

• Congenital anomalies are a major global health concern, leading to childhood mortality, chronic illness, and disability.
• The prevalence and types of these malformations require ongoing epidemiological study.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of various congenital anomalies in pediatric surgery patients.
• To analyze the types and prevalence of congenital malformations over a four-year period.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of patient data.
• Inclusion of all patients admitted to the Department of Pediatric Surgery between 2011 and 2015.
• Categorization and quantification of different congenital anomalies.

Main Results:

• Neural tube defects were the most frequent anomaly (24.3%).
• Anorectal malformations (20.7%), tracheoesophageal fistulas (20%), and intestinal obstructions (14.84%) were also common.
• Males constituted the majority of affected patients (60.5%).

Conclusions:

• Congenital malformations represent a growing worldwide health challenge with long-term consequences.
• Early detection through regular antenatal visits and prenatal diagnosis is crucial for management and prevention.
• Effective interventions can mitigate the impact on individuals, families, and healthcare systems.