ON-GOING CLINICAL STUDIES
New Studies
Utility of Discharge Antibiotics for Complicated Appendicitis: A Prospective QI Study
Utility of Pleural Drainage Following Lung Resection
Activity Restrictions Follow Nuss Procedure
On-going Studies
Western Pediatric Cervical Spine Study: A Western Pediatric Research Consortium and Western Trauma Association Study
A prospective multicenter observational study, led by Dr. Katie Russell of Intermountain Primary Children’s Healthcare, that will examine the sensitivity, specificity, negative, and positive predictive values of CT scan and plain films in diagnosing cervical spine injury that requires treatment.
A Multi-Center Randomized Trial of Transanastomotic Tube for Proximal Esophageal Atresia and Distal Tracheoesophageal Fistula Repair
The use of trans-anastomotic nasogastric tubes following esophageal reconstruction in esophageal atresia is controversial. Advocates of trans-anastomotic tubes argue that the tubes allow for earlier enteral feedings and function as a stent to maintain patency of the anastomosis. However, retrospective studies suggest that trans-anastomotic tubes increase the risk of anastomotic strictures. This prospective trial randomizes patients into tube vs no-tube treatment groups, with the primary endpoint of anastomotic stricture formation at 1-year post-operatively.
The Utility of MRCP in the Surgical Management of Choledocholithiasis in Pediatric Patients
Existing guidelines for the management of choledocholithiasis in adults may not be applicable in children, given anatomic differences and the limited availability of ERCP in many pediatric centers. This retrospective study seeks to develop a diagnostic and treatment algorithm for choledocholithiasis in children that minims unnecessary interventions and optimized clinical outcomes. In addition, the study aims to determine the role of MRCP and ERCP in the diagnosis and management of gallstone disease in children.
Colon Bundle Protocol for Improving Care in Pediatric General Surgery Patients
Building on research from the Oregon Health and Science University that demonstrated improved clinical outcomes following the institution of a colon bundle protocol, similar colon bundle protocols were implemented across WPSRC member organizations. Using the NSQIP data set, this study seeks to understand the effects of such protocols on postoperative recovery and infection complications following colon surgery.