Gastrocutaneous Fistula in Children: Incidence and Predictors
Author Information
Author(s): Ioana Bratu, Aamir Bharmal
Primary Institution: Stollery Children's Hospital, University of Alberta
Hypothesis
What are the incidence, predictors, and outcomes of gastrocutaneous fistula repair in pediatric patients?
Conclusion
Gastrocutaneous fistulas occur in 4.5% of pediatric patients and can persist for an average of 2.0 months before surgical closure.
Supporting Evidence
- 4.5% of patients developed a persistent gastrocutaneous fistula requiring surgical closure.
- Gastrostomy tubes were used for an average of 2.3 years before removal.
- Post-operative complications occurred in 12.2% of patients after gastrocutaneous fistula closure.
Takeaway
Some kids who get a feeding tube might end up with a hole in their tummy that doesn't close up on its own, and they might need surgery to fix it.
Methodology
The study reviewed medical records of children aged 0-17 who had gastrostomy tubes inserted from 1997-2007, focusing on those who developed gastrocutaneous fistulas requiring surgical closure.
Potential Biases
The retrospective nature of the study may introduce bias in the identification of cases.
Limitations
The study could not compare children with spontaneous closure of fistulas due to incomplete medical information.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 0-17 years, with a mean age of 4.2 years; 13 females and 36 males.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0097
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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