Postoperative Flank Bulge in Infants After Open CDH Repair: An Underreported Complication
Topic overview
This retrospective study identifies flank bulge as an underreported complication occurring in 11% of infants after open CDH repair with patch, likely due to intercostal nerve injury from rib sutures. While one-third resolve spontaneously, persistent cases warrant routine abdominal wall assessment during follow-up to better understand long-term functional impact.
Key takeaways
- Flank bulge occurred in 11% of CDH patients, exclusively after open repair with patch placement, likely from T11/T12 nerve injury.
- Risk factors include rib sutures during repair and higher birth weight; no cases occurred with minimally invasive approaches.
- One-third of flank bulges resolved spontaneously; persistent cases showed no functional impairment during follow-up.
- Routine abdominal wall assessment should be incorporated into CDH follow-up protocols to detect this underreported complication.
- Flank bulge presents as visible abdominal wall protrusion without hernia on ultrasound, distinguishing it from true herniation.
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How to cite: GlobalCastMD. Postoperative Flank Bulge in Infants After Open CDH Repair: An Underreported Complication. GlobalCastMD Medical Library. 2025-07-17. https://dev.library.globalcastmd.com/article/10697?via_space=staycurrentmd
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