Peritoneal drainage as definitive treatment for neonates with isolated intestinal perforation

Artificial Intelligence vs. Doctors: Diagnosing Necrotizing Enterocolitis on Abdominal Radiographs

BACKGROUND

Radiographic diagnosis of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is challenging. Deep learning models may improve accuracy by recognizing subtle imaging patterns. We hypothesized it would perform with comparable accuracy to that of senior surgical residents.

METHODS

This cohort study compiled 494 anteroposterior neonatal abdominal radiographs (214 images NEC, 280 other) and randomly divided them into training, validation, and test sets. Transfer learning was utilized to fine-tune a ResNet-50 deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) pre-trained on ImageNet. Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad-CAM) heatmaps visualized image regions of greatest relevance to the pretrained neural network. Senior surgery residents at a single institution examined the test set. Resident and DCNN ability to identify pneumatosis on radiographic images were measured via area under the receiver operating curves (AUROC) and compared using DeLong's method.

RESULTS

The pretrained neural network achieved AUROC of 0.918 (95% CI, 0.837-0.978) with an accuracy of 87.8% with five false negative and one false positive prediction. Heatmaps confirmed appropriate image region emphasis by the pretrained neural network. Senior surgical residents had a median area under the receiver operating curve of 0.896, ranging from 0.778 (95% CI 0.615-0.941) to 0.991 (95% CI 0.971-0.999) with zero to five false negatives and one to eleven false positive predictions. The deep convolutional neural network performed comparably to each surgical resident's performance (p > 0.05 for all comparisons).

CONCLUSIONS

A deep convolutional neural network trained to recognize pneumatosis can quickly and accurately assist clinicians in promptly identifying NEC in clinical practice.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III (study type: Study of Diagnostic Test, study of nonconsecutive patients without a universally applied "gold standard").

Evaluation of the management of intestinal perforation in very low birth infants, a 10-year review

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess outcomes of peritoneal drainage and laparotomy in the management of intestinal perforation secondary to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and spontaneous intestinal perforation.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all preterm infants (birthweight ≤1500 g) who underwent surgical intervention (peritoneal drainage and/or laparotomy) for intestinal perforation between March 2010 and March 2020.

RESULTS

A total of 43 infants who underwent surgical intervention for intestinal perforation were included [19 (44%) with NEC and 24 (56%) with spontaneous intestinal perforation]. Peritoneal drainage was more commonly placed as the initial surgical procedure for management of spontaneous intestinal perforation compared with surgical NEC [23 (96%) vs. 11 (58%), p = 0.003]. Mortality was greater for infants who were initially managed with peritoneal drainage [11 (32%)] compared with those who underwent primary laparotomy [2 (22%), p = 0.5].

CONCLUSION

Initial surgical management of intestinal perforation is more often according to underlying pathology. Our data support primary laparotomy for infants with perforated NEC.

Comparison of preoperative and intraoperative surgeon diagnosis and pathologic findings in spontaneous intestinal perforation vs necrotizing enterocolitis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the accuracy of preoperative and intraoperative diagnosis via comparison to pathologic diagnosis in spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) vs. necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective review of neonates <1500 g treated for pneumoperitoneum between 07/2004-09/2022 was conducted. Patients treated for NEC medically prior to diagnosis and those treated with drain only were excluded. Fleiss' Kappa analysis assessed agreement between all three diagnoses: preoperative, intraoperative, and pathologic.

RESULT

Overall, 125 patients were included with mean birthweight 834.2 g (SD:259.2) and mean gestational age 25.8 weeks (SD:2.2). Preoperative and intraoperative diagnoses agreed in 90.3%, intraoperative and pathologic agreed in 71.1%, and preoperative and pathologic agreed in 75.2% of patients. Fleiss' Kappa was 0.55 (95% CI:0.43,0.68), indicating moderate agreement between the three diagnoses.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows moderate agreement between preoperative, intraoperative, and pathologic diagnoses. Further studies investigating the clinical characteristics of SIP and NEC are needed to improve diagnostic accuracy and management.

Perforated Meckel's Diverticulum and Adhesive Intestinal Obstruction in a Preterm Neonate: A Case Report

Perforated bowel and adhesive intestinal obstruction are common indications for emergency surgical intervention in a preterm neonate. The initial approach to managing perforation involves either peritoneal drain insertion or formal laparotomy. Once a neonate presents with complete bowel obstruction, prompt abdominal exploration becomes crucial. One prevalent cause of bowel obstruction in this population is adhesions resulting from previous surgeries. This report details the case of a preterm, extremely low birth weight neonate experiencing pneumoperitoneum, initially managed with an intraperitoneal drain. Despite temporary improvement, the infant developed recurrent pneumoperitoneum, necessitating formal exploratory laparotomy. Approximately one month post-surgery, the baby encountered complete bowel obstruction due to adhesive intestinal obstruction, requiring a second exploratory laparotomy. The child survived both surgical interventions and is thriving at follow-up. Our findings suggest that in select cases, intraperitoneal drain placement may suffice. However, there is a need for further research to improve the suspicion and diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulum perforations in neonates. Additionally, vigilant assessment and timely intervention for adhesive intestinal obstruction can enhance bowel salvage outcomes.

Percutaneous Pigtail Catheter Drainage of Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation in Premature Infants

INTRODUCTION

Peritoneal drainage is an established management strategy for spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) in premature infants. We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of percutaneous pigtail catheter placement as an alternative to drain insertion via a lower quadrant incision.

METHODS

Patients less than 32 weeks gestational age who underwent peritoneal drain placement for SIP at two neonatal intensive care units between 2011 and 2022 were identified. Incisional drainage (ID) or percutaneous pigtail catheter drainage (PD) was used based upon the usual practices of the surgeons. ID (n = 19) was performed via a 5-mm right lower quadrant incision into which a one-fourth-inch Penrose or red rubber catheter was placed. PD (n = 18) was accomplished using a Seldinger technique by which a 6.0 or 8.5 F pigtail catheter was passed through the left lower quadrant. Demographics and physiological parameters at the time of drainage were recorded and short-term and long-term outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

Thirty seven infants were identified. There were no differences in demographics or physiological derangement between the groups. Patients who underwent ID had more frequent stool drainage, a greater transfusion requirement, and a longer time to full feedings (60.6 v 37.7 d, P = 0.04). Incisional hernias (n = 3, 16%) only developed after ID. The duration of drain placement, length of stay, and time to resolution of pneumoperitoneum were similar with ID and PD as was the incidence of premature drain dislodgement and subsequent laparotomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous drain placement provided effective drainage in infants with SIP and was associated with more rapid feeding advancement and no incidence of incisional hernia.

Blood Glucose, Lactate and Platelet Count in Infants with Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation versus Necrotizing Enterocolitis-A Pilot Study

The incidence of spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) increases up to 10% with decreasing gestational age (GA). We aimed to explore early biomarkers for predicting SIP in preterm infants. In this case-control study, neonates born at ≤34 weeks GA diagnosed with SIP were compared with GA and/or birth-weight-matched neonates diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Laboratory markers assessed prior and adjacent to the day of SIP or NEC diagnosis were evaluated. The cohort included 16 SIP and 16 matched NEC infants. Hyperlactatemia was less frequent in SIP than in NEC infants (12% vs. 50%, p = 0.02). The platelets count was lower in SIP than in NEC infants (p < 0.001). Glucose levels strongly correlated with lactate levels (p = 0.01) only in the NEC group. The odds of being diagnosed with SIP decreased as lactate levels increased (OR = 0.607, 95% CI: 0.377-0.978, p = 0.04). Our results suggest that a combination of laboratory markers, namely glucose and lactate, could help differentiate SIP from NEC at early stages so that, in the presence of an elevated blood glucose, an increase in blood lactate was associated with a decrease in the odds of being diagnosed with SIP.

Development of necrotizing enterocolitis after blood transfusion in very premature neonates

BACKGROUND

Prior studies report conflicting evidence on the association between packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusions and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), especially in early weeks of life where transfusions are frequent and spontaneous intestinal perforation can mimic NEC. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the association between PRBC transfusions and NEC after day of life (DOL) 14 in very premature neonates.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort analysis of very premature neonates was conducted to investigate association between PRBC transfusions and NEC after DOL 14. Primary endpoints were PRBC transfusions after DOL 14 until the date of NEC diagnosis, discharge, or death. Wilcoxon ranked-sum and Fisher's exact tests, Cox proportional hazards regression, and Kaplan-Meier curves were used to analyze data.

RESULTS

Of 549 premature neonates, 186 (34%) received transfusions after DOL 14 and nine (2%) developed NEC (median DOL = 38; interquartile range = 32-46). Of the nine with NEC after DOL 14, all were previously transfused (P < 0.001); therefore, hazard of NEC could not be estimated. Post hoc analysis of patients from DOL 10 onward included five additional patients who developed NEC between DOL 10 and DOL 14, and the hazard of NEC increased by a factor of nearly six after PRBC transfusion (hazard ratio = 5.76, 95% confidence interval = 1.02-32.7; P = 0.048).

CONCLUSIONS

Transfusions were strongly associated with NEC after DOL 14. Prospective studies are needed to determine if restrictive transfusion practices can decrease incidence of NEC after DOL 14.

Review of Necrotizing Enterocolitis and Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation Clinical Presentation, Treatment, and Outcomes

The Necrotizing Enterocolitis Surgery Trial (NEST) highlights the importance of distinguishing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) from spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) when developing surgical treatment plans. Further research is needed to increase the accuracy of this distinction, but even with our current abilities to do this initial laparotomy appears to be optimal for infants with presumed NEC. The preferred initial operation for those with SIP is more equivocal. Rates of NEC are likely decreasing slowly, whereas those with SIP are not. New imaging modalities, especially ultrasound, are becoming more useful but require more detailed investigation. Understanding the mechanisms causing these two conditions remains of paramount importance.

Special considerations in randomized trials investigating neonatal surgical treatments

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are challenging, but are the studies most likely to change practice and benefit patients. RCTs investigating neonatal surgical therapies are rare. The Necrotizing Enterocolitis Surgery Trial (NEST) was the first surgical RCT conducted by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Neonatal Research Network (NRN), and multiple lessons were learned. NEST was conducted over a 7.25-year enrollment period and the primary outcome was death or neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) at 18-22 months corrected age. Surgical investigators designing clinical trials involving neonatal surgical treatments have many considerations to include, including how to study eligible but non-randomized patients, heterogeneity of treatment effect, use of frequentist and Bayesian analyses, assessment of generalizability, and anticipating criticisms during peer review. Surgeons are encouraged to embrace these challenges and seek innovative methods to acquire evidence that will be used to improve patient outcomes.

Peter SD, Shanti CM, Pegoli W, Skarda D, Shilyansky J, Lemon DG, Mosquera RA, Peralta-Carcelen M, Goldstein RF, Vohr BR, Purdy IB, Hines AC, Maitre NL, Heyne RJ, DeMauro SB, McGowan EC, Yolton K, Kilbride HW, Natarajan G, Yost K, Winter S, Colaizy TT, Laughon MM, Lakshminrusimha S, Higgins RD. Initial Laparotomy Versus Peritoneal Drainage in Extremely Low Birthweight Infants With Surgical Necrotizing Enterocolitis or Isolated Intestinal Perforation: A Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine which initial surgical treatment results in the lowest rate of death or neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) in premature infants with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) or isolated intestinal perforation (IP).

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

The impact of initial laparotomy versus peritoneal drainage for NEC or IP on the rate of death or NDI in extremely low birth weight infants is unknown.

METHODS

We conducted the largest feasible randomized trial in 20 US centers, comparing initial laparotomy versus peritoneal drainage. The primary outcome was a composite of death or NDI at 18 to 22 months corrected age, analyzed using prespecified frequentist and Bayesian approaches.

RESULTS

Of 992 eligible infants, 310 were randomized and 96% had primary outcome assessed. Death or NDI occurred in 69% of infants in the laparotomy group versus 70% with drainage [adjusted relative risk (aRR) 1.0; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.87-1.14]. A preplanned analysis identified an interaction between preoperative diagnosis and treatment group (P = 0.03). With a preoperative diagnosis of NEC, death or NDI occurred in 69% after laparotomy versus 85% with drainage (aRR 0.81; 95% CI: 0.64-1.04). The Bayesian posterior probability that laparotomy was beneficial (risk difference <0) for a preoperative diagnosis of NEC was 97%. For preoperative diagnosis of IP, death or NDI occurred in 69% after laparotomy versus 63% with drainage (aRR, 1.11; 95% CI: 0.95-1.31); Bayesian probability of benefit with laparotomy = 18%.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no overall difference in death or NDI rates at 18 to 22 months corrected age between initial laparotomy versus drainage. However, the preoperative diagnosis of NEC or IP modified the impact of initial treatment.

Incidence of spontaneous intestinal perforations exceeds necrotizing enterocolitis in extremely low birth weight infants fed an exclusive human milk-based diet: A single center experience

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) are complications of extremely low birth weight (ELBW, ≤1000 g) infants. ELBW infants at Texas Children's Hospital receive an exclusive human milk-based diet, which has been associated with a reduction of NEC.

OBJECTIVES

1) Assess incidence of SIP and NEC (Stage II or greater) in ELBW infants receiving 100% human milk-based diet, 2) Describe mortality rates of ELBW infants with SIP and NEC.

METHODS

Prospective single-center observational cohort study of ELBW infants born between 2010 and 2014 with SIP or NEC (exclusion: congenital anomalies and death within 48 h).

RESULTS

Of 379 ELBW infants, 345 were eligible. Of these, 28 (8.1%) had SIP and 8 (2.3%) had NEC (medical n = 1, surgical n = 7). SIP infant mortality was 32% (n = 9) compared to 63% (n = 5) for NEC patients. Of SIP infants with PD (n = 25), 52% required subsequent exploratory laparotomy (LAP). Of NEC infants with peritoneal drainage (PD) (n = 2), both required subsequent LAP.

CONCLUSION

Using an exclusive human milk-based diet, the incidence of SIP exceeds NEC in ELBW infants at our institution. This shows a changing trend in the incidence of these two diagnoses in the era of human milk, as NEC had previously been more prevalent in ELBW infants. More than half of infants who initially received PD later required LAP. There were no differences in survival outcomes in both SIP and NEC groups based on surgical management.

Timing of enterostomy closure for neonatal isolated intestinal perforation

PURPOSE

No consensus guidelines exist for timing of enterostomy closure in neonatal isolated intestinal perforation (IIP). This study evaluated neonates with IIP closed during the initial admission (A1) versus a separate admission (A2) comparing total length of stay and total hospital cost.

METHODS

Using 2012 to 2017 Pediatric Health information System (PHIS) data, 359 neonates with IIP were identified who underwent enterostomy creation and enterostomy closure. Two hundred sixty-five neonates (A1) underwent enterostomy creation and enterostomy closure during the same admission. Ninety-four neonates (A2) underwent enterostomy creation at initial admission and enterostomy closure during subsequent admission. For the A2 neonates, total hospital length of stay was calculated as the sum of hospital days for both admissions. A1 neonates were matched to A2 neonates in a 1:1 ratio using propensity score matching. Multivariate models were used to compare the two matched pair groups for length of stay and cost comparisons.

RESULTS

Prior to matching, the basic demographics of our study population included a median birthweight of 960 g, mean gestational age of 29.5 weeks, and average age at admission of 4 days. Eighty-seven pairs of neonates with IIP were identified during the matching process. Neonates in A2 had 91% shorter total hospital length of stay compared to A1 neonates (HR: 1.91; 95% CI for HR: 1.44-2.53; p < .0001). The median length of stay for A1 was 95 days (95% CI: 78-102 days) versus A2 length of stay of 67 days (95% CI: 56-76 days). Adjusting for the same covariates, A2 neonates had a 22% reduction in the average total cost compared A1 neonates (RR: 0.78; 95% CI for RR: 0.64-0.95; p-value = 0.014). The average total costs were $245,742.28 for A2 neonates vs. $315,052.21 for A1 neonates (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Neonates with IIP have a 28 day shorter hospital length of stay, $75,000 or 24% lower total hospital costs, and a 22 day shorter post-operative course following enterostomy closure when enterostomy creation and closure is performed on separate admissions.

TYPE OF STUDY

Prognosis Study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

Multicenter retrospective comparison of spontaneous intestinal perforation outcomes between primary peritoneal drain and primary laparotomy

PURPOSE

The purpose of our study was to compare outcomes of infants with spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) treated with primary peritoneal drain versus primary laparotomy.

METHODS

We performed a multi-institution retrospective review of infants with diagnosis of SIP from 2012 to 2016. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared between infants treated with primary peritoneal drain vs infants treated with laparotomy.

RESULTS

We identified 171 patients treated for SIP (drain n = 110 vs. laparotomy n = 61). There were no differences in maternal or prenatal characteristics. There were no clinically significant differences in vital signs, white blood cell or platelet measures, up to 48 h after intervention. Patients who were treated primarily with a drain were more premature (24.9 vs. 27.2 weeks, p < 0.001) and had lower median birth weight (710 g vs. 896 g, p < 0.001). No significant differences were found in complications, time to full feeds, length of stay (LOS) or mortality between the groups. Primary laparotomy group had more procedures (median number 1 vs. 2, p = 0.002). There were 32 (29%) primary drain failures whereby a laparotomy was ultimately needed.

CONCLUSIONS

SIP treated with primary drain is successful in the majority of patients with no significant differences in outcomes when compared to laparotomy with stoma.

THE LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Protocol-Driven Surgical Care of Necrotizing Enterocolitis and Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation

BACKGROUND

There is no clear consensus on the optimal operative management of premature infants with surgical necrotizing enterocolitis (sNEC) or spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP); thus, a protocol was developed to guide surgical decision making regarding initial peritoneal drainage (PD) versus initial laparotomy (LAP). We sought to evaluate outcomes after implementation of the protocol.

METHODS

Pre-post study including multiple urban hospitals. Premature infants with sNEC/SIP were accrued after implementation of surgical protocol-directed care (June 2014-June 2019). Patients with a birth weight of <750 g and less than 2 wk of age without pneumatosis or portal venous gas were treated with PD on perforation. PD patients received subsequent LAP for clinical deterioration or continued meconium/bilious drainage. Postprotocol characteristics and outcomes were compared with institutional historical controls. Significance set at P < 0.05.

RESULTS

Preprotocol and postprotocol cohorts comprise 35 and 73 patients, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference in age at intervention between historical control PD (14 ± 13 d) and postprotocol PD (9 ± 4 d) groups (P = 0.01), PD patient's birth weight (716 ± 212 g versus 610 ± 141 g, P = 0.02) and estimated gestational age of LAP patients (27 ± 1.7 wk versus 31 ± 4 wk, P = 0.002). PD was definitive surgery in 27% (12 of 44) of postprotocol patients compared with 13% (3 of 23) historical controls. A trend in improved survival postprotocol occurred in all PD infants (73% versus 65%), all LAP (75% versus 70%), and for initial PD and subsequent LAP (82% versus 67%).

CONCLUSIONS

Utilization of a surgical protocol in sNEC/SIP is associated with improved success of PD as definitive surgery and improved survival.

Role of Nutrition in Prevention of Neonatal Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation and Its Complications: A Systematic Review

Background: Spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) is a devastating complication of prematurity, and extremely low birthweight (ELBW < 1000 g) infants born prior to 28 weeks are at highest risk. The role of nutrition and feeding practices in prevention and complications of SIP is unclear. The purpose of this review is to compile evidence to support early nutrition initiation in infants at risk for and after surgery for SIP. Methods: A search of PubMed, EMBASE and Medline was performed using relevant search terms according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Abstracts and full texts were reviewed by co-first authors. Studies with infants diagnosed with SIP that included information on nutrition/feeding practices prior to SIP and post-operatively were included. Primary outcome was time to first feed. Secondary outcomes were incidence of SIP, time to full enteral feeds, duration of parenteral nutrition, length of stay, neurodevelopmental outcomes and mortality. Results: Nineteen articles met inclusion criteria—nine studies included feeding/nutrition data prior to SIP and ten studies included data on post-operative nutrition. Two case series, one cohort study and sixteen historical control studies were included. Three studies showed reduced incidence of SIP with initiation of enteral nutrition in the first three days of life. Two studies showed reduced mortality and neurodevelopmental impairment in infants with early feeding. Conclusions: Available data suggest that early enteral nutrition in ELBW infants reduces incidence of SIP without increased mortality.

Differences in Serum Alkaline Phosphatase Levels in Infants with Spontaneous Intestinal Perforation versus Necrotizing Enterocolitis with Perforation

INTRODUCTION

Data on laboratory markers of spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) remain sparse.

OBJECTIVE

To compare serum alkaline phosphatase levels in infants with bowel perforation secondary to SIP versus surgical NEC, and then investigate the possible role of serum alkaline phosphatase in differentiating infants with these conditions.

METHODS

A retrospective case-control study of infants admitted with bowel perforation from 2005 to 2015. Demographic and prenatal data, postnatal exposures, and clinical, laboratory, and radiographic findings were extracted from inpatient medical records and analyzed using regression analysis.

RESULTS

Of 114 outborn infants included, 48 infants had SIP (cases) and 66 had NEC (controls). Upon admission from the referring hospital, the serum alkaline phosphatase level was significantly higher in infants with SIP, i.e., a median value of 782 versus236 U/L in NEC patients (p < 0.0001), with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 4.3 (p < 0.05) when the level was >500 U/L in multivariate regression model. Infants with SIP had significantly younger gestational age, presented earlier in life, primarily with pneumoperitoneum, and had greater exposure to steroids and indomethacin compared to infants with NEC. Alkaline phosphatase levels decreased rapidly in infants with SIP following admission.

CONCLUSION

A transient increase in serum alkaline phosphatase level is independently associated with SIP when compared to NEC. Studies to confirm the role of alkaline phosphatase in the diagnosis of SIP are necessary and have potentially significant clinical and prognostic implications.

Comparison of Acute Abdominal Surgical Outcomes of Extremely-Low-Birth-Weight Neonates according to Differential Diagnosis

BACKGROUND

Improvements in perinatal intensive care have improved survival of extremely-low-birth-weight (ELBW) neonates, although the risk of acute abdomen has increased. The differential diagnosis resulting in abdominal surgery can be categorized into necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP), meconium-related ileus (MRI), and meconium non-related ileus (MNRI). The purpose of this study was to review our experience with abdominal surgery for ELBW neonates, and to evaluate characteristics and prognosis according to the differential diagnosis.

METHODS

Medical records of ELBW neonates treated between 2003 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Of 805 ELBW neonates, 65 (8.1%) received abdominal surgery. The numbers of cases by disease category were 29 for NEC, 18 for SIP, 13 for MRI, and 5 for MNRI. Ostoma formation was performed in 61 (93.8%) patients; primary anastomosis without ostoma was performed in 4 (6.2%). All patients without ostoma formation experienced re-perforation of the anastomosis site. Seven patients had 30-day postoperative mortality (6 had NEC). Long-term survival of the surgical and non-surgical groups was not statistically different. NEC was a poor prognostic factor for survival outcome (P = 0.033).

CONCLUSION

Abdominal surgery for ELBW neonates is feasible. Ostoma formation can lead to reduced complications compared to primary anastomosis.

Management of NEC: Surgical Treatment and Role of Traditional X-ray Versus Ultrasound Imaging, Experience of a Single Centre

INTRODUCTION

Necrotizing enterocolitis is the most common cause of the postnatal critical conditions and remains one of the dominant causes of newborns' death in Neonatal Intensive Care. The morbidity and mortality associated with necrotizing enterocolitis remains largely unchanged and the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis continues to increase. There is no general agreement regarding the surgical treatment of the necrotizing enterocolitis.

METHODS

In this paper, we want to evaluate the results obtained in our centre from different types of necrotizing enterocolitis's surgical treatment and to analyse the role of traditional X-ray versus ultrasound doppler imaging in the evolutionary phases of necrotizing enterocolitis. The study was conducted in the Department of Emergency-Urgency NICU, A.O.R.N. Santobono-Pausilipon in Naples from January 2010 to December 2016. Patients were monitored by hematochemical examinations and radiological orthostatic exams every 12 hours, so that they had a surgical opportunity before intestinal perforation occurred. Ultrasonography was performed to monitor preterm infants who were hospitalized in NICU and that showed NEC symptomatology in phase I Bell staging.

RESULTS

They were recruited 75 premature infants with NEC symptomatology in phase I-III of Bell staging, who underwent surgical or medical treatment. In infants with a birth weight >1500 g (N=30), laparotomy and necrotic bowel resection has generally been our preferred approach. In 46 patients we practiced a primary anastomosis after resection of an isolated necrotic intestinal segment. In patients with multiple areas of necrosis and dubious intestinal vitality, were performed a 'second-look' scheduled after 24 to 48 hours to re-evaluate the intestine. In the initial phase of necrotizing enterocolitis, when the radiographic examination shows only a specific dilation of the loops, ultrasonography shows more and more specific signs, as wall thickening, alteration of parietal echogenicity, increase in wall perfusion, single or sporadic airborne microbubbles in the thickness of wall sections.

CONCLUSIONS

Optimal surgical therapy for NEC begins with adequate antibiotic therapy, reintegration of liquids but above all with timely diagnosis, aimed to discover early prodromic phases of wall damage by US, a fundamental tool. Abdomen radiography shows specificity frameworks only when barrier damage is detected while US provides real-time imaging of abdominal structures, highlighting some elements that are completely excluded by radiograph.

Surgical considerations for neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a potentially devastating condition that preferentially affects premature and low birth weight infants, with approximately half requiring acute surgical intervention. Surgical consult should be considered early on, and deterioration despite maximal medical therapy or the finding of pneumoperitoneum are the strongest indications for emergent surgical intervention. There is no clear consensus on the optimal surgical approach between peritoneal drainage and laparotomy; the best course of action likely depends on the infant's comorbidities, hemodynamic status, size, disease involvement, and available resources. Patients who develop surgical NEC are at a significant risk for morbidity and mortality, with long-term complications including short bowel syndrome, growth failure, and neurodevelopmental impairment. Further research into strategies that optimize outcomes following surgery for NEC in the neonatal intensive care unit and long-term are paramount.

Neonatal independent predictors of severe NEC

PURPOSE

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe neonatal disease. The present study aimed to identify factors predisposing the development of severe forms of NEC.

METHODS

This retrospective study examined NEC patients in a single centre between 2002 and 2015. Data concerning clinical characteristics, therapeutic management as well as short-term outcomes were collected. We compared the patients receiving successful medical treatment and those requiring surgical intervention. Patients who underwent surgery were distinguished in three subcategories. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used for the statistical analysis.

RESULTS

We identified 155 patients in the study period. 102 were treated conservatively and 53 required surgery. 8 received a primary peritoneal drainage, 31 received a drainage and a subsequent laparotomy and 14 received a laparotomy. Multivariate regression analysis identified a lower risk for surgery with a later onset and higher serum pH values, whereas an increased risk with higher C reactive Protein (CRP) levels at the onset. Pneumatosis intestinalis was identified as a protective factor. Overall mortality was 6.4%, with higher percentage in surgical NEC.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that a later onset is a protective sign for the progression to surgery, whereas lower pH values and higher CRP levels are prognostic factors associated with the need for surgery. The line of treatment involving explorative laparotomy in case of perforation seems to be rewarded by low morbidity and mortality rate.

Management of neonatal spontaneous intestinal perforation by peritoneal needle aspiration

OBJECTIVE

To describe conservative management of spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) in preterm infants using peritoneal needle aspiration (PNA).

STUDY DESIGN

Monocentric retrospective review of SIP cases treated primarily by PNA between 1999 and 2015 (n=31).

RESULTS

Mean gestational age was 29.2±2.4 weeks and birthweight 1149±428 g. SIP occurred at 3.7±2.2 days of life. PNA achieved definitive treatment in 18 patients (60%) with a mean of 1.8 (±0.8) procedures. All patients requiring more than three PNAs had secondary laparotomy. Two patients died and five presented severe cerebral lesions. Full enteral feeding was achieved 42±18 days after SIP. Intestinal morbidity included cholestasis (n=6), intestinal stricture (n=1) and growth restriction (n=22). On follow-up (n=25, median=4 years), no severe impairment was noted. Seventeen children (68%) had a normal development.

CONCLUSION

PNA as primary therapy for SIP is a viable option, resulting in definitive treatment in 60% of cases, with limited mortality and morbidity.

Intestinal perforation in the premature infant

OBJECTIVE

To compare demographic data, prenatal and postnatal characteristics, laboratory data, and outcomes in a cohort of premature infants with spontaneous ileal perforation (SIP), surgical necrotizing enterocolitis (sNEC) and matched controls.

METHODS

A retrospective case-control study of infants with intestinal perforation with a birth weight (BW) less than 2,000 grams and gestational age (GA) less than 34 weeks and infants without perforation matched for BW (±150 grams) and GA (±1week).

RESULTS

130 premature infants were included, 30 infants with SIP, 35 infants with sNEC and 65 control infants. The median age of onset was 5 days postnatal age in SIP versus 25 days in sNEC (p < 0.001) and the peak onset was at 26 weeks corrected GA for SIP and 30 weeks corrected GA for sNEC. Infants with perforation had significantly higher rates of mortality (p < 0.001) and common morbidities associated with prematurity. Administration of corticosteroids and indomethacin did not differ among groups. SIP was more common among infants born to young mothers (p = 0.04) and less common in infants receiving caffeine (p = 0.02). sNEC was less common among infants receiving early red cell transfusion (p = 0.01). Perforation and sNEC trended towards less common in infants receiving inhaled nitric oxide.

CONCLUSION

SIP and sNEC are distinct clinical entities. Potential protective effects of caffeine, inhaled nitric oxide, and early transfusion should be further studied.

Long term outcome of preterm infants with isolated intestinal perforation: A comparison between primary anastomosis and ileostomy

AIM OF THE STUDY

Management of isolated intestinal perforation (IIP) poses a challenge for the pediatric surgeon. Intestinal resection and primary anastomosis is considered to be as good as the classical approach, namely, intestinal diversion by ileostomy. However, few reports compare primary anastomosis and ileostomy as IIP treatment. In our institution we favored primary anastomosis as first line treatment whenever patient's condition permitted. Our purpose is to retrospectively compare the outcomes of preterm infants treated with primary anastomosis or ileostomy during a laparotomy in which an IIP was found.

METHOD

We identified all newborns who had abdominal operations for IIP from 2000 through 2013. Patients with extensive necrotizing entorocolitis and comorbidities were excluded, as well as those who died in the first 24h. Demographics, type of treatment and complications were reviewed. Major complications included the need for an urgent reoperation, development of late NEC and death.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients with a median gestational age (GA) of 27weeks and median birth weight (BW) of 883g had receive two types of treatment: group I included 9 patients who had intestinal resection of the affected bowel and ileostomy; group PA consisted of 14 patients who had intestinal resection and primary anastomosis. The decision to perform PA or I was based on the surgeon's judgment, in the absence of a specific protocol. There were no significant differences in GA and BW between both groups. Overall mortality was 30.4%. However mortality was restricted to group PA (n=7 cases; 50%) (p=0.019). Most major complications occurred in group PA (71% vs. 11%, p=0.029). There were six cases of late NEC, all in group PA (p=0.048), and four of those patients died. Other than the type of treatment, no differences could be identified between both groups.

CONCLUSION

Preterm newborns with IIP are at a higher risk for developing life-threatening complications if treated with primary anastomosis than with ileostomy.

Parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease in extremely low-birthweight infants with intestinal disease

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate factors associated with the development of parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease (PNALD) and to examine the clinicopathological relationship of PNALD in extremely low-birthweight infants (ELBWI).

METHODS

The subjects were 13 ELBWI who had received PN because of intestinal perforation or functional ileus between 2000 and 2013. We measured the serum levels of biochemical parameters, including aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and direct bilirubin. Liver histopathology was examined in relation to outcome. The subjects were categorized into two groups on liver histopathology: F(+), development of hepatic fibrosis and necrosis with/without cholestasis; and F(-), no hepatic fibrosis.

RESULTS

Of 13 ELBWI, five died of hepatic failure, five died of sepsis, and the other three were alive at the time of the study. Of the five infants who died of hepatic failure, two developed fulminant hepatitis without cholestasis, and the other three developed chronic cholestasis and finally hepatic failure. Postmortem histopathology in F(+) indicated not only massive hepatic necrosis, but also massive hepatic fibrosis. These histopathological findings explained the clinical presentation of portal hypertension. There were significant differences in the fasting period after intestinal disease onset between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

The prolonged fasting with PN is responsible for severe hepatocellular necrosis with fibrosis and consequent lethal portal hypertension.

Definitive peritoneal drainage in the extremely low birth weight infant with spontaneous intestinal perforation: predictors and hospital outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To identify characteristics associated with definitive peritoneal drainage (PD) in the extremely low birth weight infant diagnosed with spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP). We also sought to determine whether patients requiring a second operation (salvage laparotomy) following PD are at increased risk of adverse hospital outcomes, including increased times to full enteral feedings and decreased 30-day survival.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a retrospective chart review of infants with a birth weight <1000 g who underwent PD for SIP at a single tertiary neonatal unit from 2003 to 2012. Infants with signs of necrotizing enterocolitis on abdominal plain films, including pneumatosis intestinalis, portal venous gas or fixed, dilated small loops of bowel were excluded from the study. Perinatal and perioperative data and short-term neonatal outcomes prior to hospital discharge were collected. Comparison was made between two groups: infants treated with definitive PD vs infants requiring salvage laparotomy. Data were analyzed using independent samples t-test and Cochrane-Mantel-Haenszel.

RESULT

Eighty-nine infants who fit all inclusion criteria were identified during the study period. PD was definitive in 67 (75.3%) patients. Patients who had definitive PD vs those who required salvage laparotomy were significantly more likely to present at a later day of life (9.6±5.3 vs 5.6±2.7, P<0.0001) and to have a lower birth weight (724.6 g±132.5 vs 809.2 g±143.1, P=0.02). The administration of indomethacin or ibuprofen prior to the diagnosis of SIP was also associated with definitive PD (74.6% vs 50%, P=0.03). Comparison of feeding outcomes revealed that the time to achieve full enteral feeds was significantly longer for those who underwent a salvage laparotomy (95.9±30.2 vs 60.4±30.4 days, P<0.005). Short-term survival (>30 days) was not significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

PD was definitive therapy for the majority of neonates included in this study who were referred for surgical evaluation of SIP. Our data point to trends in being able to identify infants with SIP who are at risk for salvage laparotomy following PD, and thus, adverse nutritional outcomes. Larger, prospective studies are needed to further evaluate this specific patient population and identify those patients who are likely to succeed with PD following the diagnosis of SIP.

Usefulness of ultrasound examinations in the diagnostics of necrotizing enterocolitis

Background

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the most serious disorders of gastrointestinal tract during neonatal period. Early diagnosis and adequate treatment are essential in the presence of clinical suspicion of NEC. Plain abdominal radiography is currently the modality of choice for initial evaluation of gastrointestinal tract in neonates. However, when the diagnosis is uncertain, abdominal ultrasound with bowel assessment might be an important complementary examination. The aim of the study was to evaluate usefulness of ultrasound in the diagnosis of NEC and its value for implementation of proper treatment.

Material/Methods

The data of nine neonates diagnosed with NEC, hospitalized at the Provincial Hospital No. 2 in Rzeszow in the period from September 2009 to April 2013 was retrospectively analyzed. Apart from abdominal radiography, abdominal ultrasound with bowel assessment was performed in all nine cases. Imaging findings, epidemiological data, coexisting risk factors and disease course were assessed.

Results

Most children in the group were preterm neonates. Findings in plain abdominal radiography were normal or nonspecific. A wider spectrum of findings was demonstrated in all ultrasound examinations and intestinal pneumatosis, a pathognomonic sign for NEC, was more frequently noted than in plain abdominal x-ray. Most children were treated by surgical intervention with resection of necrotic bowel loops and in more than half of the cases location of changes identified during surgery was concordant with ultrasonographic findings.

Conclusions

Abdominal ultrasound examination might be helpful in the diagnosis of NEC, especially when plain abdominal radiography findings do not correlate with clinical symptoms. However, abdominal radiography is still considered the modality of choice. The range of morphological changes detectable on ultrasound examination is much wider than in plain abdominal radiography. Ultrasound examination allows for more accurate assessment of changes within intestines and adjacent tissues, which aids clinicians in making more accurate therapeutic decisions and implementing proper treatment.

Peritoneal Drainage as the Initial Management of Intestinal Perforation in Premature Infants

Complicated necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) are major causes of mortality. We hypothesized that peritoneal drainage (PD) is more efficacious in SIP. Newborn infants with intestinal perforation treated with PD at our institution between 2007 and 2012 were divided into two groups: Group 1, infants with complicated NEC (n = 19), and Group 2, infants with SIP (n = 15). In Group 1, median birth weight was 705 g; median gestational age was 25.9 weeks. Median age at PD was 24 days. Six required laparotomy. Median time from PD to enteral feeds was 22.5 days. In Group 2, median birth weight was 685 g; median gestational age was 25.3 weeks. Median age at PD was 5 days. Two required laparotomy. Median time from PD to enteral feeds was 16 days. In Group 1, eight patients survived to discharge; median length of hospital stay (LOS) was 104.5 days. In Group 2, eight survived; median LOS was 109.5 days. Neither outcome was statistically significant ( P = 0.73 and 0.878, respectively). Management of premature infants with intestinal perforation remains challenging. Mortality is high. Between our cohorts, there were no differences in regard to PD as definitive therapy, survival, and LOS.

Mortality associated with laparotomy-confirmed neonatal spontaneous intestinal perforation: a prospective 5-year multicenter analysis

BACKGROUND

Spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) has been recognized as a distinct disease entity. This study sought to quantify mortality associated with laparotomy-confirmed SIP and to compare it to mortality of laparotomy-confirmed necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

METHODS

Data were prospectively collected on 177,618 very-low-birth-weight (VLBW, 401-1500g) neonates born between January 2006 and December 2010 admitted to US hospitals participating in the Vermont Oxford Network (VON). SIP was defined at laparotomy as a focal perforation of the intestine without features suggestive of NEC or other intestinal abnormalities. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

At laparotomy, 2036 (1.1%) neonates were diagnosed with SIP and 4076 (2.3%) with NEC. Neonates with laparotomy-confirmed SIP had higher mortality (19%) than infants without NEC or SIP (5%, P=0.003). However, laparotomy-confirmed SIP patients had significantly lower mortality than those with confirmed NEC (38%, P<0.0001). Mortality in both NEC and SIP groups decreased with increasing birth weight and mortality was significantly higher for NEC than SIP in each birth weight category. Indomethacin and steroid exposure were more frequent in the SIP cohort than the other two groups (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In VLBW infants, the presence of laparotomy-confirmed SIP increases mortality significantly. However, laparotomy-confirmed NEC mortality was double that of SIP. This relationship is evident regardless of birth weight. The variant mortality of laparotomy-confirmed SIP versus laparotomy-confirmed NEC highlights the importance of differentiating between these two diseases both for clinical and research purposes.

Mortality and management of surgical necrotizing enterocolitis in very low birth weight neonates: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a leading cause of death in very low birth weight (VLBW) neonates. The overall mortality of NEC is well documented. However, those requiring surgery appear to have increased mortality compared with those managed medically. The objective of this study was to establish national birth-weight-based benchmarks for the mortality of surgical NEC and describe the use and mortality of laparotomy vs peritoneal drainage.

STUDY DESIGN

There were 655 US centers that prospectively evaluated 188,703 VLBW neonates (401 to 1,500 g) between 2006 and 2010. Survival was defined as living in-hospital at 1-year or hospital discharge.

RESULTS

There were 17,159 (9%) patients who had NEC, with mortality of 28%; 8,224 patients did not receive operations (medical NEC, mortality 21%) and 8,935 were operated on (mortality 35%). On multivariable regression, lower birth weight, laparotomy, and peritoneal drainage were independent predictors of mortality (p < 0.0001). In surgical NEC, a plateau mortality of around 30% persisted despite birth weights >750 g; medical NEC mortality fell consistently with increasing birth weight. For example, in neonates weighing 1,251 to 1,500 g, mortality was 27% in surgical vs 6% in medical NEC (odds ratio [OR] 6.10, 95% CI 4.58 to 8.12). Of those treated surgically, 6,131 (69%) underwent laparotomy only (mortality 31%), 1,283 received peritoneal drainage and a laparotomy (mortality 34%), and 1,521 had peritoneal drainage alone (mortality 50%).

CONCLUSIONS

Fifty-two percent of VLBW neonates with NEC underwent surgery, which was accompanied by a substantial increase in mortality. Regardless of birth weight, surgical NEC showed a plateau in mortality at approximately 30%. Laparotomy was the more frequent method of treatment (69%) and of those managed by drainage, 46% also had a laparotomy. The laparotomy alone and drainage with laparotomy groups had similar mortalities, while the drainage alone treatment cohort was associated with the highest mortality.

Parenteral-nutrition-associated liver disease after intestinal perforation in extremely low-birthweight infants: consequent lethal portal hypertension

BACKGROUND

Parenteral nutrition (PN)-associated liver dysfunction (PNALD) in term infants usually manifests as intrahepatic cholestasis, which recovers with enteral nutrition (EN) in most cases; however, as the number of extremely low-birthweight infants (ELBWI) has been increasing, and consequently intestinal diseases associated with ELBWI have been increasing, more intractable PNALD has been encountered after surgical treatment in ELBWI, which does not resolve or rather worsens with EN.

METHODS

Three cases of ELBWI with intestinal perforation, which developed PNALD and eventually died of hepatic failure with intractable portal hypertension, were reviewed. Their gestational age and birthweight ranged from 23 to 26 weeks, and from 434 to 968 g, respectively. The intestinal diseases included necrotizing enteritis in two and meconium-related ileus with focal intestinal perforation in one.

RESULTS

The duration of total PN without EN in the three cases was 17, 24 and 24 days, respectively. The interval between the introduction of PN and the onset of PNALD was 14, 4 and 18 days, respectively. A marked elevation of serum endotoxin level was detected in both cases of necrotizing enteritis. Histopathological study of the liver revealed marked cholestasis, significant hepatic necrosis with fibrosis, and proliferation of ductules in all these cases, which was responsible for portal hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS

PN after gastrointestinal disorders in ELBWI may cause refractory PNALD, which does not resolve, or rather worsens with the resumption of EN. Portal hypertension secondary to hepatic necrosis may be responsible for the exacerbation with the resumption of EN.

Case report: delayed perforation after definitive treatment of focal intestinal perforation with a peritoneal drain

Focal intestinal perforation (FIP) has long been described in the pediatric literature. Peritoneal drainage (PD) is widely used as treatment for focal intestinal perforation. Here we report a premature infant that underwent PD on day of life 9 for a FIP. The infant recovered well from this episode and was discharged home without known sequelae. Subsequently, the same patient presented 16 months later with peritonitis. A perforation was discovered at laparotomy without evidence of surrounding necrosis. Given this finding, we believe this second episode of perforation was at the same site as the initial episode of FIP. The finding of FIP has been described without findings of surrounding necrosis. However, we believe this to be the first report of delayed perforation greater than 1 year from initial presentation after FIP treated definitively with peritoneal drain.

Could clinical scores guide the surgical treatment of necrotizing enterocolitis?

PURPOSE

Test the diagnostic reliability of the score for neonatal acute physiology-perinatal extension-II (SNAPPE-II) and the metabolic derangement acuity score (MDAS) as predictors of surgery in patients with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

METHODS

The SNAPPE-II and the MDAS were applied to 99 patients with NEC. Both the scores were calculated at the moment of diagnosis (T(0)) and when surgical assessment was required (T(1)). The main outcome was the need of surgical revision. Comparison between models was made through their receiver operator characteristics (ROC) curves.

RESULTS

Thirty-five patients required surgical treatment (group A) and 64 responded to medical therapy (group B). Median SNAPPE-II was 22 versus 5 for group A (U test 621, p = 0.002) at T(0); and 22 versus 10 for group A (U test 487, p = 0.01) at T(1). Measuring the value of the SNAPPE-II as a predictor of surgery, the ROC curve was 0.69 (CI 95%, 0.57-0.80) at T(0) and 0.67 (CI 95%, 0.55-0.80) at T(1). Median MDAS were 2 for both groups A and B at T(0) (U test 890.5, p = 0.113) and 2 versus 1.5 for group A at T(1) (U test 570, p = 0.043). The ROC curve for MDAS was 0.59 (CI 95%, 0.47-0.71) at T(0) and 0.64 (CI 95%, 0.52-0.77) at T(1).

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnostic performance of the SNAPPE-II offers mild results in the moment of the diagnosis of NEC, and at T(1). The MDAS is non significant at T(0) and obtains moderate results at T(1). These results do not encourage using the SNAPPE-II and the MDAS as definite tools to decide for surgical treatment of the patients affected by NEC.

Peritoneal drainage versus laparotomy for perforated necrotising enterocolitis or spontaneous intestinal perforation: a retrospective cohort study

AIM

Perforated necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) and spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) in preterm infants are associated with high morbidity and mortality. The optimum surgical management during the acute stage remains unclear. The aim of the study was to compare the outcomes of preterm infants (gestational age at birth <30 weeks) with perforated NEC or SIP undergoing primary peritoneal drainage (PD) versus laparotomy.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study (January 2004 to February 2010). Initial search of hospital database followed by a review of the medical records was performed to identify eligible infants. Thirty-nine infants were included in the study. Information regarding the baseline characteristics and outcomes of interest were recorded using the medical charts, radiology and laboratory databases. NEC was differentiated from SIP based on radiological, operative and clinical findings retrospectively for this study.

RESULTS

Among 39 infants, 19 underwent primary PD while 20 had primary laparotomy. Gestational age and birthweight were similar between the two groups. The composite outcome of mortality before discharge or hospital stay longer than 3 months post-term was significantly worse in PD group (74% vs. 40%, P= 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

Preterm infants undergoing PD for NEC/SIP appeared to have increased risk of adverse outcome compared with laparotomy. More randomised controlled trials are necessary to confirm these findings.

Meconium-related ileus in extremely low-birthweight neonates: etiological considerations from histology and radiology

BACKGROUND

A nationwide survey on neonatal surgery conducted by the Japanese Society of Pediatric Surgeons has demonstrated that the mortality of neonatal intestinal perforation has risen over the past 15 years. The incidence of intestinal perforation in extremely low-birthweight (ELBW) neonates has been increasing as more ELBW neonates survive and as the live-birth rate of ELBW has increased. In contrast to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and focal intestinal perforation (FIP), the pathogenesis of meconium-related ileus, defined as functional bowel obstruction characterized by delayed meconium excretion and microcolon, remains unclarified.

METHODS

The histology of 13 ELBW neonates with intestinal perforation secondary to meconium-related ileus was reviewed, and the radiology of 33 cases of meconium-related ileus diagnosed on contrast enema was reviewed. Specimens obtained from 16 ELBW neonates without gastrointestinal disease served as age-matched controls for histological assessment.

RESULTS

The size of the ganglion cell nucleus in meconium-related ileus and in control subjects was 47.3 ± 22.0 µm(2) and 37.8 ± 11.6 µm(2), respectively, which was not significantly different. In all cases of meconium-related ileus, contrast enema demonstrated a microcolon or small-sized colon, with a gradual caliber change in the ileum and filling defects due to meconium in the ileum or colon, showing not-identical locations of caliber changes and filling defects.

CONCLUSION

Morphological immaturity of ganglia was not suggested to be the pathogenesis of meconium-related ileus. Impaction of inspissated meconium is not the cause of obstruction, but the result of excessive water absorption in the hypoperistaltic bowel before birth, although the underlying mechanism responsible for the fetal hypoperistalsis remains unclear.

Outcomes analysis after percutaneous abdominal drainage and exploratory laparotomy for necrotizing enterocolitis in 4,657 infants

PURPOSE

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a common acquired gastrointestinal disease of infancy that is strongly correlated with prematurity. Both percutaneous abdominal drainage and laparotomy with resection of diseased bowel are surgical options for treatment of NEC. The objective of the present study is to compare outcomes of patients who were treated either with bowel resection/ostomy (BR/O), percutaneous drainage (PD) or Both procedures for NEC in a retrospective analysis.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed using data from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, extracted from a combination of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) and Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) from 1988 to 2005. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed for in-hospital mortality associated with PD, BR/O or Both procedures for management of NEC. In addition, linear regression was performed for length of stay and total hospital charges. Odds ratios were calculated using the BR/O category as the reference group.

RESULTS

There were 4,238 patients identified who underwent BR/O, 286 for PD, and 133 for Both procedures for NEC. Patients undergoing PD had a 5.7 times higher odds of death compared to patients treated with BR/O (p < 0.05) alone; patients receiving Both procedures did not have significantly higher odds of death compared to the BR/O group. Patients who underwent PD had a shorter length of stay (43 days; p < 0.05) and lower total hospital charges ($173,850; p < 0.05) in comparison to patients treated with BR/O. Length of stay and total hospital charges were greater in patients who received Both procedures, compared to those receiving BR/O alone, but this was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

In this nationwide sample of infants with NEC, outcomes for peritoneal drainage alone were poorer than those for bowel resection and enterostomy and for Both procedures. Increased overall mortality and shorter length of stay and hospital charges suggest higher early mortality associated with peritoneal drainage alone. Risk stratifying these groups using prematurity, birth weight, and number of concurrent diagnoses yielded equivocal results. A more detailed study will be needed to determine whether the patient populations that underwent initial laparotomy and bowel resection are substantially different from those that receive peritoneal drainage, or whether differences in outcome may be directly attributable to the type of procedure performed.

Peritoneal drainage versus laparotomy as initial surgical treatment for perforated necrotizing enterocolitis or spontaneous intestinal perforation in preterm low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

Standard surgical management of infants with perforated necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) or spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP) is laparotomy with the resection of the necrotic or perforated segments of the intestine. Peritoneal drainage is an alternative approach to the management of such infants.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and risks of peritoneal drainage compared to laparotomy as the initial surgical treatment for perforated NEC or SIP in preterm infants.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), (The Cochrane Library 2010, Issue 3), MEDLINE (1966 to July 2010), EMBASE (1980 to July 2010), CINAHL (1982 to July 2010), previous reviews and cross-references were searched. Abstracts of paediatric academic society meetings were also searched (online: 2000 to 2009; handsearching Pediatric Research: 1995 to 2000).

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials in preterm (< 37 weeks gestation), low birth weight (< 2500 g) infants with perforated NEC or SIP allocated to peritoneal drainage or laparotomy as initial surgical treatment.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data were excerpted from the trial reports and analysed according to the standards of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group.

MAIN RESULTS

Only two randomised controlled trials (RCT) met the eligibility criteria. Overall, no significant differences were seen between the peritoneal drainage and laparotomy groups regarding the incidence of mortality within 28 days of the primary procedure (28/90 versus 30/95; typical relative risk (RR) 0.99, 95% CI 0.64 to 1.52; N = 185, two trials); mortality by 90 days after the primary procedure (typical RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.55; N = 185, two trials) and the number of infants needing total parenteral nutrition for more than 90 days (typical RR 1.18, 95% CI 0.72 to 1.95; N = 116, two trials). Nearly 50% of the infants in the peritoneal drainage group could avoid the need for laparotomy during the study period (44/90 versus 95/96; typical RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.61; N = 186, two trials). One study found that the time to attain full enteral feeds in infants ≤ 1000 g was prolonged in the peritoneal drainage group (mean difference (MD) 20.77, 95% CI 3.62 to 37.92).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence from two RCTs suggests no significant benefits or harms of peritoneal drainage over laparotomy. However, due to the very small sample size, clinically significant differences may have easily been missed. No firm recommendations can be made for clinicians. Large multicentre randomised controlled trials are needed to address this question definitively.

Peritoneal drainage does not stabilize extremely low birth weight infants with perforated bowel: data from the NET Trial

INTRODUCTION

Proponents of peritoneal drainage (PD) hypothesize that it allows stabilization before laparotomy. We examined this hypothesis by comparing clinical status before and after either PD or primary laparotomy (LAP).

METHODS

In an ethically approved, international, prospective randomized controlled trial (2002-2006), extremely low birth weight (<1000 g) infants with pneumoperitoneum received primary PD (n = 35) or LAP (n = 34). Physiologic data were collected prospectively and organ failure scores calculated and compared between preprocedure and day 1 after procedure. Data, expressed as mean +/- SD or median (range), were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests.

RESULTS

There was no postprocedure improvement in either PD or LAP group comparing heart rate (PD, P = 1.0; LAP, P = .6), blood pressure (PD, P = .6; LAP, P = .8), inotrope requirement (PD, P = .2; LAP, P = .3), or Arterial partial pressure of oxygen/fraction of inspired oxygen ratio (PD, P = .1; LAP, P = .5). Infants managed with PD had a worsening cardiovascular status (P = .05). There were no differences in total organ failure score in either group (PD, P = .5; LAP, P = 1). Only 4 infants survived with PD alone with no difference between preprocedure and postprocedure organ failure score (P = .4).

CONCLUSIONS

Peritoneal drainage does not immediately improve clinical status in extremely low birth weight infants with bowel perforation. The use of PD as a stabilizing or temporizing measure is not supported by these results.

The evidence base for neonatal surgery

The practise of evidence based medicine means integrating the clinical expertise with the best available external clinical evidence from systematic research. There is a lack of supporting scientific evidence from rigorous trials in neonatal surgery. The indications for surgery and the type of operation performed in neonates are rarely supported by randomised controlled trials. As a consequence, the majority of the operations performed in neonates are supported by retrospective studies and surgeon preference. This review article is focussed on operations in neonates which are performed by general paediatric surgeons. Only a few randomised controlled trials have been performed in neonatal diseases such as congenital diaphragmatic hernia, necrotizing enterocolitis, pyloric stenosis and inguinal hernia. All of these trials have been based on collaboration between paediatric surgical units highlighting the importance of creating a network of centres that will promote multicentre prospective studies.

Spontaneous sealing of a neonatal intestinal perforation by the omentum

Several recent reports have suggested that, in select premature neonates, intestinal perforation may be managed by peritoneal drainage alone. Much like a surgical Graham patch, the omentum may seal an intestinal perforation allowing healing while maintaining bowel continuity. This photograph, illustrating a classic case of spontaneous sealing of such a perforation, demonstrates why surgery may be avoided in some cases.

Necrotizing enterocolitis--bench to bedside: novel and emerging strategies

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating illness that predominantly affects premature neonates. The mortality associated with this disease has changed very little during the last two decades. Neonates with NEC fall into two categories: those who respond to medical management alone and those who require surgical treatment. The disease distribution may be focal, multifocal, or panintestinal. Surgical treatment should therefore be based on disease presentation. Recent studies have added significant insight into our understanding of the pathogenesis of NEC. Several groups have shown that upregulation of nitric oxide plays an integral role in the development of epithelial injury in NEC. As a result, some treatment strategies have been aimed at abrogating the toxic effects of nitric oxide. In addition, several investigators have reported the cytoprotective effect of epidermal growth factor, which is found in high levels in breast milk, on the intestinal epithelium. Thus, fortification of infant formula with specific growth factors could soon become a preferred strategy to accelerate intestinal maturation in the premature neonate to prevent the development of NEC. One of the most devastating complications of NEC is the development of short bowel syndrome (SBS). The current treatment of SBS involves intestinal lengthening procedures or bowel transplantation. A novel emerging method for treating SBS involves the use of tissue-engineered intestine. In laboratory animals, tissue-engineered small intestine has been shown to be successful in treating intestinal failure. This article examines recent data regarding surgical treatment options for NEC as well as emerging treatment modalities.

Peritoneal drainage or laparotomy for neonatal bowel perforation? A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether primary peritoneal drainage improves survival and outcome of extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants with intestinal perforation.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Optimal surgical management of ELBW infants with intestinal perforation is unknown.

METHODS

An international multicenter randomized controlled trial was performed between 2002 and 2006. Inclusion criteria were birthweight >or=1000 g and pneumoperitoneum on x-ray (necrotizing enterocolitis or isolated perforation). Patients were randomized to peritoneal drain or laparotomy, minimizing differences in weight, gestation, ventilation, inotropes, platelets, country, and on-site surgical facilities. Patients randomized to drain were allowed to have a delayed laparotomy after at least 12 hours of no clinical improvement.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine patients were randomized (35 drain, 34 laparotomy); 1 subsequently withdrew consent. Six-month survival was 18/35 (51.4%) with a drain and 21/33 (63.6%) with laparotomy (P = 0.3; difference 12% 95% CI, -11, 34%). Cox regression analysis showed no significant difference between groups (hazard ratio for primary drain 1.6; P = 0.3; 95% CI, 0.7-3.4). Delayed laparotomy was performed in 26/35 (74%) patients after a median of 2.5 days (range, 0.4-21) and did not improve 6-month survival compared with primary laparotomy (relative risk of mortality 1.4; P = 0.4; 95% CI, 0.6-3.4). Drain was effective as a definitive treatment in only 4/35 (11%) surviving neonates, the rest either had a delayed laparotomy or died.

CONCLUSIONS

Seventy-four percent of neonates treated with primary peritoneal drainage required delayed laparotomy. There were no significant differences in outcomes between the 2 randomization groups. Primary peritoneal drainage is ineffective as either a temporising measure or definitive treatment. If a drain is inserted, a timely "rescue" laparotomy should be considered. Trial registration number ISRCTN18282954; http://isrctn.org/

Low mortality in necrotizing enterocolitis associated with coagulase-negative Staphylococcus infection

The aim of this study was to correlate the clinical course of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) with infection by coagulase-negative Staphylococcus at the onset of the illness. Records of all newborn infants developing NEC between January 1998 and December 2001 were reviewed. NEC was classified according to the criteria of Bell et al. Numeric variables were described by standard statistical methods. Comparisons between subgroups were performed by parametric statistical tests. Forty-four patients developed NEC stage II (n = 25) or III (n = 19). The incidence was 0.024% of live births in the hospital, and the mortality rate was 9%. The main risk factor was prematurity (84%). Only one-fourth of the patients had gastric residuals. A platelet count of <100,000 cells/mm3 occurred only in grade III NEC. Blood cultures were positive in 34% of the patients. The predominant organism (73%) was coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CoNS). Neither Clostridium nor Bacteroides species were isolated. Stage II patients were maintained nothing per os (NPO) for 9 +/- 3 days and received antibiotics for 10 +/- 3 days. All of the stage III patients required an operation. In one-third of them, primary peritoneal drainage was initially performed but all required further operative procedures. We report a low incidence and mortality rate of necrotizing enterocolitis. Thrombocytopenia is confirmed as a marker of severity. Positive blood cultures for CoNS may explain, at least in part, the low mortality reported.

Intestinal stenting in preterm, very-low-birth-weight infants with necrotizing enterocolitis and multiple perforations

We present 2 cases of necrotizing enterocolitis with multiple intestinal perforations or areas of segmental bowel necrosis in preterm, very-low-birth-weight infants. We reviewed their charts and researched the related literature. We used SILASTIC (Silmag, Argentina) intestinal stents to avoid multiple formal bowel anastomosis or stomas and longer resections, and to reduce operative time. In the first case, we externalized the stent through the first and last perforation; and in the second, through a proximal jejunostomy and the orifice left after an appendectomy. This method was useful in avoiding short bowel syndrome in both infants, and they were discharged successfully. They are currently 31/2 and 2 years old, respectively, eating without any restriction and with mild developmental delays. Treatment of preterm infants with multiple bowel perforations or areas of bowel necrosis requires a maximal effort to preserve as much intestinal length as possible. Use of the SILASTIC stent technique provides a good treatment variant in selected cases to preserve bowel length, reduce operative time, and avoid short bowel syndrome.

Evidence vs experience in the surgical management of necrotizing enterocolitis and focal intestinal perforation

INTRODUCTION

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and focal intestinal perforation (FIP) are neonatal intestinal emergencies that affect premature infants. Although most cases of early NEC can be successfully managed with medical therapy, prompt surgical intervention is often required for advanced or perforated NEC and FIP.

METHODS

The surgical management and treatment of FIP and NEC are discussed on the basis of literature review and our personal experience.

RESULTS

Surgical options are diverse, and include peritoneal drainage, laparotomy with diverting ostomy alone, laparotomy with intestinal resection and primary anastomosis or stoma creation, with or without second-look procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

The optimal surgical therapy for FIP and NEC begins with prompt diagnosis and adequate fluid resuscitation. It appears that there is no significant difference in patient outcome based on surgical management alone. However, the infant's weight, comorbidities, surgeon preference and timing of intervention should be taken into account before operative intervention.