Publication
Title
Fetal ascites in cloacal malformations-a red flag
Author
Abstract
IntroductionCloacal malformation is a rare anomaly that remains a diagnostic challenge prenatally, despite the current advances in ultrasonography and MRI. This condition can in some, present with isolated ascites or with other findings, such as a pelvic cyst or upper urinary tract dilatation. In a minority, the ascites may be progressive, questioning the role of antenatal intervention.MethodsWe report on ten patients that have been identified from our Cloaca database between 2010 and 2022.ResultsThe presence of ascites was associated with extensive bowel adhesions and matting, leading to a challenging initial laparotomy and peri-operative course.ConclusionsAntenatal finding of ascites in newborns with cloacal malformations should raise a red flag. The surgeon and anaesthetist should be prepared for the operative difficulties secondary to bowel adhesions and the higher risk of haemodynamic instability at the initial surgery. An experienced team at initial laparotomy in such patients is vital.Level of evidence: II.ConclusionsAntenatal finding of ascites in newborns with cloacal malformations should raise a red flag. The surgeon and anaesthetist should be prepared for the operative difficulties secondary to bowel adhesions and the higher risk of haemodynamic instability at the initial surgery. An experienced team at initial laparotomy in such patients is vital.Level of evidence: II.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Pediatric surgery international. - Berlin, 1986, currens
Publication
Berlin : Springer , 2023
ISSN
0179-0358 [print]
1437-9813 [online]
DOI
10.1007/S00383-023-05564-1
Volume/pages
39 :1 (2023) , p. 1-8
Article Reference
293
ISI
001102511200001
Pubmed ID
37971531
Medium
E-only publicatie
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 04.12.2023
Last edited 25.04.2024
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