Prognostic significance of the pouch sign in fetuses with prenatally diagnosed esophageal atresia - 05/09/11
Abstract |
Objective: Esophageal atresia may be diagnosed prenatally by ultrasonographic visualization of the blind-ending esophagus during fetal swallowing, which is referred to as the pouch sign. Our purpose was to determine whether this sign can be used to predict outcomes of affected fetuses. Study Design: Four cases of esophageal atresia diagnosed in our center during the past 2 years were analyzed, in conjunction with 3 cases from published series. Ultrasonographic features of the pouch sign were categorized according to localization. Results: In the neck pouch group (n = 3) 1 fetus died in utero and 1 died before a corrective operation could be undertaken. In the only fetus of this group to survive a staged repair was necessary because of a long atretic gap. Conversely, 3 of the 4 fetuses with a mediastinal pouch survived after a successful corrective operation, and primary repair was possible in all cases. Conclusions: The base of the proximal blind-ending esophagus can be clearly localized by means of ultrasonography. Our data suggest that a neck pouch may be associated with an adverse outcome. This information may be useful in counseling parents when esophageal atresia is diagnosed prenatally. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2000;182:978-81.)
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Keywords : Esophageal atresia, prenatal diagnosis, ultrasonography
Plan
Supported by the German Federal Ministry for Education and Research (grant 01ZZ9511). |
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Reprint requests: Karim D. Kalache, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London Medical School, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London, United Kingdom WC1E 6HX. |
Vol 182 - N° 4
P. 978-981 - avril 2000 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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