Journal of pediatric surgery
Audio Summaries

Management of Pediatric Rectal Trauma: A Four-Year ACS-TQIP Database Review

Aug 7, 2026

This study aims to evaluate the management practices and outcomes of pediatric rectal trauma using data from the ACS-TQIP database over four years. The findings reveal that a majority of cases were managed non-operatively, with primary repair being favored over fecal diversion and other techniques, while the surgical approach did not significantly impact patient outcomes. The research highlights the need for further investigation into pediatric-specific management strategies in rectal trauma.

Dynamic DBil and TBA Trajectories for Predicting Native Liver Survival in Biliary Atresia: A Multicenter Study with an Open-Access Online Tool

Aug 7, 2026

The authors aimed to develop a predictive model for native liver survival (NLS) in children with biliary atresia (BA) using dynamic trajectories of postoperative direct bilirubin (DBil) and total bilirubin acid (TBA). By analyzing data from 473 patients, they identified distinct trajectory subgroups and demonstrated that a combined model of DBil and TBA trajectories significantly outperformed traditional static indicators for predicting NLS. An open-access online tool was created to facilitate individualized prognostic assessments, pending further validation.

High-Fidelity Simulation Model for the Posterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty in Anorectal Malformations with Rectovestibular and Rectourethral Fistula

Aug 6, 2026

The authors aimed to develop a high-fidelity simulation model for posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) to enhance surgical training for anorectal malformations, which are rarely encountered in practice. They created a model using poultry by-products that accurately replicates the relevant anatomical features and tissue characteristics, allowing trainees to practice key surgical steps. This innovative and cost-effective simulator could improve competency in pediatric colorectal surgery despite limitations in simulating certain preoperative procedures.

Assessing the Burden of Adolescent Care in Paediatric Surgery in a Single Tertiary Institution in the Caribbean: An Age-Stratified Case-Mix Audit

Aug 6, 2026

The authors aimed to quantify the contribution of adolescents to a tertiary paediatric surgical service in the Caribbean and to analyze how the types of diseases varied across different age groups. Their findings revealed that adolescents accounted for a significant portion of surgical activity, predominantly related to acquired conditions, suggesting a need for tailored care pathways that address the unique surgical needs of this age group while maintaining resources for younger patients with congenital and developmental issues.

Comparative Predictive Value of the Transfusion-Adjusted Shock Score to Shock Index-Pediatric Adjusted in Determining Need for Operative Intervention in Pediatric Blunt Liver and Spleen Injuries

Aug 5, 2026

The authors aimed to compare the predictive value of the Transfusion-Adjusted Shock Score (TASS) and the Shock Index-Pediatric Adjusted (SIPA) in determining the need for surgical intervention in pediatric patients with blunt liver and spleen injuries. Their findings indicate that TASS, which incorporates early blood transfusion, demonstrated higher sensitivity and discrimination compared to SIPA, particularly varying by age group. This suggests that integrating early transfusion data into pediatric trauma indices can enhance the assessment of surgical intervention needs.

Cumulative Effects of Stepwise Quality Improvement in Postoperative Care for Pediatric Complicated Appendicitis

Aug 5, 2026

This study investigates the cumulative impact of stepwise quality improvement initiatives on postoperative care for pediatric patients with complicated appendicitis. The authors found that these initiatives led to reduced postoperative imaging, fewer organ space surgical site infections, and shorter hospital stays, although there was an increase in readmissions for surgical site infections, indicating a need for further quality improvement efforts.

Congenital Segmental Overinflation: Beware the Hidden Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation

Aug 4, 2026

The authors investigate the indications for surgical intervention in children with congenital segmental overinflation (CSO) and the histological findings associated with resected cases. They found that while CSO is often managed conservatively, some patients developed infections requiring surgery, and histological analysis frequently revealed congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) features. This study aims to inform parental counseling regarding the potential complications and histological outcomes of CSO in pediatric patients.

COntrast-enhanced COlonosonography in AnoRectal Malformations (CoCo-ARM) Study

Aug 4, 2026

The authors aimed to compare the accuracy of contrast-enhanced colosonography (CeCS) with fluoroscopic colostography (FC) in planning surgery for male patients with anorectal malformations (ARM). Their findings indicated that CeCS is at least as effective, if not superior, to FC in identifying fistular anatomy, with a high level of diagnostic confidence and consistency with operative findings. The study suggests that CeCS could be a viable alternative to FC in this clinical context.

Paediatric injury: an urgent call for action

Aug 4, 2026

The authors aim to address the urgent issue of childhood injury, which significantly impacts mortality and morbidity, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. They propose a comprehensive framework consisting of seven interdependent pillars to guide paediatric surgeons in their role beyond surgery, focusing on effective prevention strategies and the strengthening of trauma systems to reduce childhood injuries.

Single-centre retrospective cohort study on laparoscopic and open adhesiolysis for adhesional bowel obstruction in children

Aug 4, 2026

This study aimed to compare the characteristics and outcomes of laparoscopic versus open adhesiolysis for adhesional bowel obstruction in children. The results indicated that laparoscopic adhesiolysis is safe and feasible, associated with a significantly shorter hospital stay and similar rates of post-operative complications and recurrent bowel obstruction, despite a high conversion rate to open surgery.