Congenital malformations potentially affecting respiratory function: multidisciplinary approach and follow-up

Valentina Fainardi1, Laura Nicoletti2, Cristiano Conte2

  • 1. valentina.fainardi@gmail.com.

Insights

Children with congenital malformations affecting lung development, like oesophageal atresia (OA), face significant respiratory risks. Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care are crucial for managing these conditions and improving outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Congenital Malformations
  • Respiratory Health

Background:

  • Congenital malformations including oesophageal atresia (OA), tracheoesophageal fistula (TOF), congenital pulmonary airway malformations (CPAMs), congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), and vascular rings (VRs) can impede lung development and respiratory function.
  • These conditions require specialized management due to potential short- and long-term respiratory complications, particularly in early childhood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe a multidisciplinary approach to the respiratory follow-up of children diagnosed with congenital malformations affecting lung development.
  • To highlight the respiratory challenges and management strategies in this patient population.

Main Methods:

  • An observational study was conducted, collecting clinical data from pediatric patients treated between January 2015 and January 2020.
  • Twenty-three patients with congenital malformations impacting lung development were identified and analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Nearly half of the patients were diagnosed prenatally via fetal ultrasound.
  • Over half of the children experienced hospitalizations for lower respiratory tract infections.
  • Pulmonary function tests revealed abnormalities in 6 out of 9 assessable children, with oesophageal atresia (OA) being most frequently associated with respiratory issues.

Conclusions:

  • Children with congenital malformations affecting lung development are susceptible to respiratory complications, necessitating vigilant monitoring.
  • A multidisciplinary approach and personalized follow-up are essential for optimal management and improved respiratory outcomes in affected children.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Pulmonary Cycle: Exhalation01:17

Pulmonary Cycle: Exhalation

In terms of human respiration, the act of expelling air, known as exhalation (or expiration), operates on the principle of pressure gradients. During expiration, the pressure within the lungs exceeds that of the surrounding atmosphere. Under normal conditions, quiet breathing involves passive exhalation and is free of muscular contractions. This is because the exhalation process is driven by the natural elastic recoil of the lungs and chest wall, both of which have an inherent tendency to...
2.5K
Respiratory System Abnormal Finding I: Inspection and Percussion01:30

Respiratory System Abnormal Finding I: Inspection and Percussion

Respiratory system abnormalities are a significant concern in healthcare due to their potential to indicate underlying severe conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, and pneumonia. These abnormalities can often be detected through physical examination methods like inspection and percussion.
Inspection Findings
During an inspection, several findings may suggest the presence of respiratory distress or disease. Pursed-lip breathing, where exhalation is slowed by...
545
Acute Respiratory Failure-V01:29

Acute Respiratory Failure-V

The treatment for acute respiratory failure varies based on factors like the underlying cause, overall health, and severity. A collaborative healthcare team is essential for early detection, often through arterial blood gas analysis. Identifying the cause is the primary goal, with treatment strategies adjusted for ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) mismatch, shunting, or diffusion impairment.
Ensure that patients are monitored continuously for their response to therapy, including changes in...
288
Assessment of Respiration01:23

Assessment of Respiration

The respiratory system's basic structures and primary functions lay the foundation for nurses' comprehensive respiratory assessments. This assessment includes subjective and objective data to gauge the patient's respiratory health.
Subjective Assessment: Nurses interview the patient to gather information directly during the subjective assessment. It includes questions about the individual's medical history, medications, and symptoms, focusing on past respiratory conditions like...
1.5K