Cutting-Edge Laparoscopic and Thoracoscopic Surgery in Children

A special issue of Children (ISSN 2227-9067). This special issue belongs to the section "Pediatric Surgery".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 January 2025) | Viewed by 6423

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
Interests: paediatric surgery; minimally-invasive surgery; laparoscopic and thoracoscopic surgery
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The Special Issue "Cutting-Edge Laparoscopic and Thoracoscopic Surgery in Children" explores the latest advancements in surgical techniques designed to reduce trauma and improve recovery outcomes in young patients. Topics include cutting-edge laparoscopic and thoracoscopic procedures and innovative tools. By highlighting basic science, clinical studies, and systematic reviews, this issue aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the efficacy, safety, and future directions of minimally invasive surgery in neonates and children, ultimately enhancing pediatric surgical care.

We invite submissions that cover any aspects of minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and thoracoscopic surgery in children. We look forward to receiving innovative contributions that will help shape the future of pediatric laparoscopic and thoracoscopic surgery.

Prof. Dr. Michael Boettcher
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • minimally invasive surgery
  • neonates
  • pediatrics
  • laparoscopic procedures
  • thoracoscopic techniques

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Published Papers (4 papers)

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Research

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9 pages, 558 KiB  
Article
Risk Factors for Postoperative Intra-Abdominal Abscess in Pediatric Perforated Appendicitis Following Laparoscopic Appendectomy: A Multicenter Analysis
by Joonhyuk Son, Ji-Won Han and Chaeyoun Oh
Children 2024, 11(11), 1385; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11111385 - 14 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1498
Abstract
Background: Perforated appendicitis in children is a frequently encountered and significant surgical condition. The treatment of choice is laparoscopic appendectomy, but this carries a risk of postoperative intra-abdominal abscess (IAA). The purpose of this study was to determine risk factors linked to the [...] Read more.
Background: Perforated appendicitis in children is a frequently encountered and significant surgical condition. The treatment of choice is laparoscopic appendectomy, but this carries a risk of postoperative intra-abdominal abscess (IAA). The purpose of this study was to determine risk factors linked to the occurrence of IAA following laparoscopic surgery in pediatric perforated appendicitis. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed 137 children with perforated appendicitis who received laparoscopic appendectomy at four tertiary hospitals between March 2018 and December 2022. Data on patient demographics, preoperative clinical characteristics, and surgical details were collected. Independent risk factors for IAA formation were determined using logistic regression analysis. Results: The overall incidence of postoperative IAA was 10.9%. Prolonged symptom duration and elevated CRP levels were associated with higher IAA rates. Patients who developed IAAs experienced prolonged postoperative fevers and longer hospital stays. Significant risk factors for IAA identified through multivariable analysis included a higher severity grade of appendicitis (≥Grade IV, OR 5.9, p = 0.034) and the presence of a free appendicolith during surgery (OR 5.549, p = 0.01). Of the patients who developed IAAs, nine (60%) improved with conservative treatment, while six (40%) required invasive procedures. Conclusions: A higher severity grade of appendicitis (≥Grade IV) and the presence of a free appendicolith are significant predictors of postoperative IAAs in pediatric perforated appendicitis. Recognizing these factors can help guide clinical management and postoperative care, potentially reducing the incidence of this complication. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cutting-Edge Laparoscopic and Thoracoscopic Surgery in Children)
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14 pages, 2385 KiB  
Article
Robotic-Assisted Surgery in Children Using the Senhance® Surgical System: An Observational Study
by Rianne E. M. Killaars, Ruben G. J. Visschers, Marc Dirix, Olivier P. F. Theeuws, Roxanne Eurlings, Dianne J. H. Dinjens, Hamit Cakir and Wim G. van Gemert
Children 2024, 11(8), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11080935 - 31 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1402
Abstract
Background: Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) holds many theoretical advantages, especially in pediatric surgical procedures. However, most robotic systems are dedicated to adult surgery and are less suitable for smaller children. The Senhance® Surgical System (SSS®), providing 3 mm and 5 mm [...] Read more.
Background: Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) holds many theoretical advantages, especially in pediatric surgical procedures. However, most robotic systems are dedicated to adult surgery and are less suitable for smaller children. The Senhance® Surgical System (SSS®), providing 3 mm and 5 mm instruments, focuses on making RAS technically feasible for smaller children. This prospective observational study aims to assess whether RAS in pediatric patients using the SSS® is safe and feasible. Methods and Results: A total of 42 children (aged 0–17 years, weight ≥ 10 kg) underwent a RAS procedure on the abdominal area using the SSS® between 2020 and 2023. The study group consisted of 20 male and 22 female individuals. The mean age was 10.7 years (range 0.8 to 17.8 years), with a mean body weight of 40.7 kg (range 10.1 to 117.3 kg). The 3-mm-sized instruments of the SSS® were used in 12 of the 42 children who underwent RAS. The RAS procedures were successfully completed in 90% of cases. The conversion rate to conventional laparoscopy was low (10%), and there were no conversions to open surgery. One of the 42 cases (2%) experienced intraoperative complications, whereas six children (14%) suffered from a postoperative complication. Overall, 86% of the patients had an uncomplicated postoperative course. Conclusions: The results of the current observational study demonstrate the safety and feasibility of utilizing the SSS® for abdominal pediatric RAS procedures. The study provides new fundamental information supporting the implementation of the SSS® in clinical practice in pediatric surgery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cutting-Edge Laparoscopic and Thoracoscopic Surgery in Children)
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Review

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21 pages, 5944 KiB  
Review
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs) in Pediatric Patients: A Case Report and Literature Review
by Tudor-Alexandru Popoiu, Cãtãlin-Alexandru Pîrvu, Cãlin-Marius Popoiu, Emil Radu Iacob, Tamas Talpai, Amalia Voinea, Rãzvan-Sorin Albu, Sorina Tãban, Larisa-Mihaela Bãlãnoiu and Stelian Pantea
Children 2024, 11(9), 1040; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11091040 - 26 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2194
Abstract
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare mesenchymal neoplasms that primarily affect adults, with pediatric cases constituting only 0.5–2.7% of the total. Pediatric GISTs present unique clinical, genetic, and pathological features that distinguish them from adult cases. This literature review aims to elucidate these [...] Read more.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare mesenchymal neoplasms that primarily affect adults, with pediatric cases constituting only 0.5–2.7% of the total. Pediatric GISTs present unique clinical, genetic, and pathological features that distinguish them from adult cases. This literature review aims to elucidate these differences, emphasizing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. We discuss the resistance of pediatric GISTs to conventional chemotherapy and highlight the importance of surgical intervention, especially in emergency situations involving intra-abdominal bleeding. The review also explores the molecular characteristics of pediatric GISTs, including rare mutations such as quadruple-negative wild-type GIST with an FGF3 gene gain mutation. To illustrate these points, we conclude with a case from our clinic involving a 15-year-old female with multiple CD117-positive gastric GISTs and a quadruple-negative wild-type genetic profile who required urgent surgical intervention following a failed tumor embolization. This case underscores the critical need for early diagnosis and individualized therapeutic strategies combining oncologic and surgical care to improve outcomes in pediatric GIST patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cutting-Edge Laparoscopic and Thoracoscopic Surgery in Children)
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Other

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13 pages, 750 KiB  
Systematic Review
Mitrofanoff Appendicovesicostomy in Robotic Paediatric Surgery—A Systematic Review
by Diana Ronconi Di Giuseppe, Harry Claxton, Rauand Duhoky, Guglielmo Niccolò Piozzi and Jim S. Khan
Children 2024, 11(12), 1442; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11121442 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 830
Abstract
Introduction: Proper bladder drainage is crucial. Children with bladder dysfunction may require alternative methods like clean intermittent catheterisation (CIC). However, CIC can be challenging for individuals with impairments. The Mitrofanoff procedure provides a solution by connecting the appendix to the bladder and creating [...] Read more.
Introduction: Proper bladder drainage is crucial. Children with bladder dysfunction may require alternative methods like clean intermittent catheterisation (CIC). However, CIC can be challenging for individuals with impairments. The Mitrofanoff procedure provides a solution by connecting the appendix to the bladder and creating a stoma on the skin, allowing for continent catheterisation. Minimally invasive techniques, including robotics, have been adopted recently. The aim of this study is to review the existing literature on robotic Mitrofanoff procedures. Materials and Methods: A systematic review on paediatric robotic Mitrofanoff procedures on the PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus databases was conducted according to the PRISMA Statement. Critical appraisals of the included studies were performed with the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Results: Six studies were included about the robotic Mitrofanoff procedure. Sex was reported in 50% of the studies. Ages were within the twelve-year age limit, as per the inclusion criteria. The mean operative time was 499.3 (±171.1) min. Four of the six studies reported a length of stay with a median of 6 days (±4; range 1.8–23). The incidence of complications was in line with established benchmarks. Only one study compared the Mitrofanoff procedure to open surgery, finding similar outcomes but longer operating times. Port placement and surgical strategy was described. Conclusions: Robotics can offer potential advantages for the Mitrofanoff procedure, despite its application still being in its early stages. This study emphasises the potential safety and efficacy of the robotic approach and promotes the need for further prospective high-quality studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cutting-Edge Laparoscopic and Thoracoscopic Surgery in Children)
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