Intra-abdominal hypertension in neonates following congenital diaphragmatic hernia repair: Correlation with early postoperative respiratory and gastrointestinal outcomes

Approaches to nutrition and feeding in congenital diaphragmatic hernia

In patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia1, nutrition can represent a challenge both in the short and long term. Its failure to resolve can have a significant impact on multiple aspects of the lives of patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), ranging from lung function to neurodevelopment. In this review, we will describe the causes of nutritional problems in patients with CDH, their consequences, and possible strategies to address them.

Comparison of the Surgical Outcomes in Neonates with Left-sided Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia with Only Skin Closure versus Abdominal Muscle Closure

Aim

This study aims to compare the outcome of neonatal left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH, Bochdalek type) repair through laparotomy with and without abdominal muscle closure.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective study was conducted between January 2012 and May 2021 at a neonatal surgical unit of a Tertiary Care Center. Demographic details, preoperative management, Two-dimensional-echo, intra-operative findings, postoperative course, and follow-up data were collected and analyzed.

Results

The study group comprised 50 neonates with a mean standard deviation (SD) age at admission: 4.44 (5.12) days, male: female ratio of 3:2, and mean (SD) weight: 2.73 (0.51) kg. Following repair of the diaphragmatic defect through laparotomy, 26 (52%) underwent skin closure alone, whereas 24 (48%) underwent abdominal muscle closure. Postoperatively, there was a significant fall in the level of platelets (P = 0.021), increase in pressure support by at least 4-5 cm H2O (P = 0.027), and increase in the blood urea (P < 0.001), creatinine (P = 0.005), lactate (P = 0.019), and acidosis (P = 0.048) in the muscle closure group. Although not statistically significant, there was a fall in the urine output and blood pressure in this group. There was no significant difference in the duration of inotropes. Mortality was 8 (32%) in the skin closure group, and 14 (61%) in the muscle closure group (P = 0.05).

Conclusions

Neonates undergoing left CDH repair through the abdominal route with skin closure alone, had better survival, as well as hematological, renal, and ventilatory parameters than those who underwent muscle closure. It is a useful surgical modification to improve outcome in centers with limited facilities.

Intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) has been acknowledged as an important contributor to organ dysfunction in critically ill patients, both in surgical and medical conditions. As our understanding of the pathophysiology evolves, risk factors are better recognized, preventive measures can now be implemented and therapeutic interventions tailored to the physiology of the patient. In the current review, we want to highlight developing insights in the epidemiology and treatment of patients with IAH and ACS.

RECENT FINDINGS

The impact of IAH and ACS on kidney function and other outcomes continues to draw attention in recent studies. New methods for IAP measurement are under development, and the search for biomarkers to detect IAH or ACS continues. In conditions wherein IAH and ACS are common, recent studies allow better prevention and treatment of these conditions, based on the contemporary ICU management consisting of IAP measurement, judicious fluid resuscitation and decompressive laparotomy where necessary. Surgical treatment options including open abdomen therapy continue to be improved with demonstrable impact on outcomes.

SUMMARY

In this manuscript, we provide an overview of recent insights and developments in the epidemiology, monitoring and treatment of patients with IAH and/or ACS.