Search PubMed⌕ Search

Biomedical subjects

S Agarwala

Publications and source records attributed to S Agarwala.

At least 37 records · Page 2Linked to original sources
PubMed2002

Augmentation colocystoplasty in bladder exstrophy.

A good bladder capacity and adequate outlet resistance determine success after staged reconstruction of bladder exstrophy (BE). Augmentation cystoplasty (AC) is an established salvage procedure to treat the small, noncompliant bladders of some of these children. In a series of 89 patients with BE treated over the last 12 years, 19 underwent detubularized augmentation colocystoplasty (ACC) as an adjunctive procedure. Nine underwent ACC at the time of bladder-neck reconstruction (BNR) for small bladder capacity and poor compliance; 10 underwent ACC as a secondary procedure after BNR for persistent urinary incontinence or poor bladder compliance and upper-tract deterioration. The follow-up period ranged between 6 months and 12 years (mean 41 months). Complications included symptomatic urinary-tract infection in 4 patients, recurrent epididymo-orchitis in 2, calculi in 3, colonic anastomotic dehiscence in 1, bladder-patch fistula in 2, and secondary coloureteric-junction obstruction in 1. There was no postoperative reservoir perforation or mortality. The upper tract remained normal or stable in all patients. Nine of the 19 patients are dry both day and night; 4 others are dry during the day but have occasional nocturnal wetting. Three patients have nocturnal wetting with stress incontinence and 2 remain incontinent. Seven patients can void effectively using abdominal contractions and 12 require clean intermittent catherization to ensure complete voiding. The indications and results of AC in BE from other series are reviewed. AC is an important and safe adjunctive procedure in a subset of BE patients with small and poorly compliant bladders. Despite the known complications, more liberal use of AC in BE is warranted.

Adolescent↗
PubMed2002

The role of imipramine therapy in bladder exstrophy after bladder neck reconstruction.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the role of imipramine therapy after bladder neck reconstruction in patients with bladder exstrophy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Seventeen children with bladder exstrophy who achieved partial continence after bladder neck reconstruction received imipramine (1.5-2 mg/kg body weight) for a mean duration of 9.5 months. Assessment before and after therapy included an objective classification of the continence status and artificial slow-fill cystometry. RESULTS: Eleven of the 17 patients had a good clinical response to imipramine, with an increase in the continent period to > 2 h, and in nocturnal continence. The urodynamic findings showed a significant improvement in the capacity, end-fill pressure, uninhibited contractions and '20 below' capacity. Only minor side-effects of the drug were reported. CONCLUSION: Imipramine has a role in patients who achieve partial continence after reconstruction, and who have a moderately small capacity bladder with poor compliance and uninhibited contractions.

Antidepressive Agents, Tricyclic↗
PubMed2001

Sonic hedgehog control of size and shape in midbrain pattern formation.

Little is known about how patterns of cell types are organized to form brain structures of appropriate size and shape. To study this process, we employed in vivo electroporation during midbrain development to create ectopic sources of Sonic Hedgehog, a signaling molecule previously shown to specify different neuronal cell types in a concentration-dependent manner in vitro. We provide direct evidence that a Sonic Hedgehog source can control pattern at a distance in brain development and demonstrate that the size, shape, and orientation of the cell populations produced depend on the geometry of the morphogen source. Thus, a single regulatory molecule can coordinate tissue size and shape with cell-type identity in brain development.

Animals↗
PubMed2001

HSV-1 vector-delivered FGF2 to the retina is neuroprotective but does not preserve functional responses.

Fibroblast growth factor 2 (bFGF, FGF2) exhibits mitogenic, angiogenic, wound healing, and neuroprotective properties. Infusion of FGF2 in vivo to treat neurodegenerative disorders in animal models results in increased survival of damaged neurons, but these effects are transient. To test the feasibility of HSV vector-delivered FGF2 for neuroprotection, we inserted the FGF2 gene under the control of the HCMV immediate-early promoter into an attenuated avirulent HSV-1 vector. Transduction with FGF2/HSV-1 virus promoted survival of PC12 cells, induced differentiation of these cells to the neuronal phenotype in vitro, and protected PC12 neuronal cells from death induced by nerve growth factor withdrawal. The attenuated FGF2/HSV-1 virus was able to deliver and direct expression of the FGF2 gene in the eye. Delivery prior to light exposure in a rat model of retinal degeneration resulted in significant protection against photoreceptor loss. However, functional ERG responses were not detected. Treatment of normal eyes with the vector alone suppressed ERGs, which were only partially restored in eyes receiving the FGF2 vector. Thus, although the FGF2-HSV-1 virus induced preservation of cell and tissue structure, this was not sufficient to protect photoreceptor function.

Animals↗
PubMed2001

Silo construction from a sterile adhesive film and polypropylene mesh in the repair of gastroschisis and omphalocele.

A simple technique of constructing a silo for the treatment of gastroschisis (GS) and omphalocele (OMP) is described. A polypropylene mesh covered on both sides with a sterile transparent adhesive film (incise drape) was used; both these items are freely available in the operating room. The resultant silo is sterile, soft, flexible, sturdy, internally smooth, provides a reasonable barrier, and allows enough visibility of the bowel. This silo was used in the treatment of 25 cases of GS and 13 cases of OMP with acceptable results. Survival was better in patients in whom primary closure could be achieved in both OMP and GS. Silo treatment was associated with higher mortality from septic causes.

Gastroschisis↗
PubMed2001

Thoracoabdominal intestinal duplication with absent inferior vena cava.

We report a rare case of thoracoabdominal intestinal duplication with absent inferior vena cava (IVC). The patient was initially explored with a mistaken diagnosis of diaphragmatic hernia on the basis of a chest radiograph and barium meal. However, a subsequent computed tomography scan revealed a mediastinal mass with an air-fluid level, a hugely dilated azygos vein, and an absent IVC. Thoracoabdominal exploration was required to excise the duplication cyst arising from the jejunum. We believe that this is the first report of this association.

Azygos Vein↗
PubMed2001

Functional outcome after pyeloplasty for unilateral symptomatic hydronephrosis.

The functional outcome and factors influencing improvement after pyeloplasty for ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction are still debated. This retrospective study was aimed at evaluating the factors associated with functional improvement in symptomatic unilateral hydronephrosis (HDN). Patients (n = 68) who underwent successful pyeloplasty for unilateral symptomatic UPJ obstruction without any other associated urological abnormality were included. Preoperative evaluation included a diuretic renogram (DR) to confirm obstruction and assess the split renal function (SRF). A follow-up DR was obtained 3 months and 1, 2, and 5 years postoperatively. An absolute increase in the differential function of the operated kidney by over 5% was considered significant; such kidneys were classified as improved (group A) and the others as unimproved (group B). The difference between the preoperative and 3-month SRF was highly significant (P < 0.001). Significant (P < 0.01) improvement in SRF continued until 1 year after pyeloplasty. Patients who presented with a mass had significantly greater improvement (P < 0.05) than those who presented with other clinical features. In group A, a significantly higher number of patients presented with a mass. It was also evident that patients aged less than 1 year showed significantly greater (P < 0.01) improvement in SRF than older patients. Thus, in unilateral symptomatic HDN with impaired function, patients who present with a mass or those in whom pyeloplasty was performed before 1 year of age showed significantly greater improvement.

Child↗
PubMed2001

Cystometric evaluation of reconstructed classical bladder exstrophy.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association of urodynamic variables with continence and upper tract status after reconstruction in patients with classical bladder exstrophy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty-one patients with bladder exstrophy were assessed 1 year after a modified bladder neck reconstruction. The evaluation included a detailed history, radioisotope renography, voiding cysto-urethrography, ultrasonography and artificial slow-filling cystometry. RESULTS: Fifteen of the 31 patients were satisfactorily continent; their maximum cystometric capacity was higher than that of the incontinent patients. The compliance, assessed as the maximum bladder capacity at a detrusor pressure of < 20 cmH2O, was significantly higher in the continent patients. There was a 45% incidence of unstable contractions in the 31 patients. Persistent sphincteric activity was detected on electromyography in 10 patients during voiding. Twenty-one patients could initiate a detrusor contraction during voiding. The residual volume was significant in nine of the 21 patients who attempted to void. Patients with a high end-fill pressure (> 40 cmH2O) had a significantly higher incidence of unobstructive hydronephrosis than had patients who had an end-fill pressure of < 40 cmH2O. CONCLUSIONS: Bladder abnormalities are common after reconstruction of bladder exstrophy, with poor compliance, small capacity and unstable contractions. These factors hinder any increase in capacity and cause persistent incontinence. Hypocompliance and high end-fill pressure can lead to upper tract damage even in continent patients. Detailed urodynamic evaluation is vital to assess the results and to plan subsequent treatment.

Bladder Exstrophy↗
PubMed2001

Pediatric extragonadal germ cell tumor of the scalp.

Extragonadal germ cell tumors are relatively rare tumors, accounting for 5% to 10% of all germ cell tumors in adults. In children, approximately two thirds of germ cell tumors are extragonadal. Extragonadal germ cell tumor of the scalp is exceedingly rare. The authors report the case of a 1(1/2)-year-old boy with extragonadal germ cell tumor over the occipital region. Examination of the chest, abdomen, and gonads was normal. Computed tomography scan of the head showed a large, well-defined, lobulated, heterogeneously enhancing soft tissue mass lesion in the occipital region. The underlying bone was normal with no evidence of intracranial extension. Biopsy results of the scalp mass showed features consistent with embroynal carcinoma. Serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level was elevated. The child was started on chemotherapy and received 4 cycles of cisplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin (PEB). There was more than 90% reduction in the size of the mass at the end of the fourth cycle. The residual mass was excised and followed up with 2 cycles of postoperative PEB. Ten months after excision the patient is well, without recurrence, and the AFP level is normal.

Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols↗
PubMed2001

Transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder following exposure to cyclophosphamide in childhood.

With the increasing survival of children with malignancies, the long-term effects of chemotherapies are now becoming important and one of these dreadful long-term complications is the development of a second malignancy. Described here is a case of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder developing 8 years following exposure to cyclophosphamide for the treatment of embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma.

Adolescent↗
PubMed2001

Hepatobiliary scintigraphic findings in obstructed intrahepatic choledochal cyst before and after surgery.

The authors describe a 10-week-old boy who presented with symptoms of progressive obstructive jaundice and abdominal distension. Clinical examination revealed gross hepatomegaly. A preoperative Tc-99m mebrofenin hepatobiliary study showed a large photopenic area involving the entire right lobe of the liver that did not communicate with the biliary system. Ultrasonography revealed a huge cystic mass with a few intracystic septae involving nearly the entire liver parenchyma. Under ultrasound guidance, a pigtail catheter was inserted into the cyst and produced free drainage of bile-stained fluid. Subsequently, an obstructed choledochal cyst was diagnosed clinically, and a right hepatectomy followed by a Roux-en-Y loop implantation on the raw surface of the left lobe were performed. Serial postoperative Tc-99m mebrofenin hepatobiliary studies showed marked improvement in liver function and biliary drainage with significant regeneration of the liver parenchyma.

Anastomosis, Roux-en-Y↗
PubMed2001

Color Doppler and duplex sonography in 5 patients with thoracic outlet syndrome.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the use of color Doppler sonography in the diagnosis of thoracic outlet syndrome. METHODS: We studied color Doppler sonographic findings in 5 clinically suspected cases of thoracic outlet syndrome. The subclavian artery and vein were studied in varying degrees of abduction to assess the severity of the syndrome. RESULTS: Significant changes, i.e., stages of increased velocities, preocclusion, and occlusion in the subclavian artery in varying degrees of abduction, were noted in 4 of 5 cases. Blunted flow in the axillary artery (4 patients) and a rebound increase in velocities on release of abduction were noted in 3 patients. These changes suggested that significant narrowing was causing symptoms. CONCLUSION: Color Doppler sonography is a noninvasive, effective method compared with digital subtraction angiography in the diagnosis of thoracic outlet syndrome.

Adult↗
PubMed2000

Gastric teratoma in children.

Gastric teratoma (GT) comprises less than 1% of all teratomas in children. Though GT in the presence of immature neuroepithelial elements is regarded as malignant, the prognosis is excellent after complete excision of the tumor. Because of its rarity the world literature lacks a large study. Clinical experience with ten cases of GT is presented and discussed. Only one patient was female; the mean age at presentation was 3.2 months. Two cases were immature grade III GT; one of these had infiltrated the left lobe of the liver and the transverse colon while the other had metastasized to the regional lymph nodes and omentum. All the patients underwent complete excision. There were no deaths, and after a mean follow-up period of 4.2 years, all the patients had no recurrence and were healthy. Both the mature and immature types of GT have an excellent prognosis after complete excision of the tumor. Even when the immature type infiltrates surrounding structures, complete excision offers recurrence-free survival without requiring chemo- or radiotherapy.

Biopsy↗
PubMed2000

Postnatal outcome and natural history of antenatally-detected hydronephrosis.

Routine maternal ultrasonography (US) has revealed a very high incidence of fetal hydronephrosis (HDN), the postnatal outcome and management protocols of which are replete with controversies. Pelviureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction is the commonest postnatal diagnosis, and its management has no consensus to date. This study was carried out to define the postnatal outcome and natural history of fetal HDN and to identify the mode of management to be adopted to the best advantage. All patients were subjected to US 48 h postnatally or at first presentation and isotope renography (DTPA) with nuclear glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was carried out at 3-4 weeks of age or at presentation. Micturating cystourethrography (MCU) and/or direct radionuclide cystography (DRCG) were done in cases with bilateral HDN, nonobstructive HDN, dilated ureter on US, and recurrent urinary tract infection. Patients were then grouped for surgical intervention or conservative follow-up. Investigations were repeated periodically. A total of 56 patients were registered for the study (78 renal units) with a mean follow-up period of 14.6 months; 37 renal units were operated upon or scheduled for surgery and 67 had some organic pathology, of which PUJ obstruction was the commonest. Among patients with PUJ obstruction, indications for surgery included symptoms, a palpable mass, poor or deteriorating function, and a solitary functioning kidney. Patients operated upon showed improvement in function and/or drainage, while those followed conservatively remained stable or improved. Controversy still exists as to the optimal management of PUJ obstruction detected antenatally. While it is the commonest postnatal diagnosis, many other pathologies are now being encountered. In antenatally-diagnosed HDN, there is a good scope for conservative management provided rigid follow-up can be ensured, especially because a good recovery potential exists followed surgery whenever indicated.

Female↗
PubMed2000

Fulguration of posterior urethral valves using the Nd:YAG laser.

Endoscopic management is the accepted form of treatment for posterior urethral valves (PUV). The Nd:YAG laser has been in clinical use for many decades, but has been used only sporadically for ablating PUV. In this study, PUV were diagnosed by micturating cystourethrogram (MCU). In the 9-month period beginning March 1997, 23 boys 3 months to 9 years of age underwent endoscopic Nd:YAG laser surgery for PUV using a 600 quartz bare fibre through the catheter channel of an 8.5 F cystoscope. The laser power and total energy delivered ranged from 20 to 50 W and 50-1085 J, respectively. Type I PUV were present in 20 boys; 1 had type III, and in 1 boy each there were residual valves and a urethral stricture from a previous electrocautery ablation. All operations were done with the patient under general anaesthesia supplemented by caudal morphine. Routine postoperative cystoscopy was done in the first 5 cases only. All patients had a good stream of urine without bleeding or any other complication after valve ablation. Mucosal tags seen on follow-up cystoscopy in 5 patients were fulgurated by laser. In 4 other patients recystoscopy was required for deterioration of the urinary stream and persistent posterior urethral dilatation on MCU; residual valves were refulgurated by laser. An indwelling catheter was left in only 4 patients, 2 of whom were primarily operated and 2 following refulguration. All except the first 2 were treated as out-patients. Application of the Nd:YAG laser has added a new dimension for treating PUV. The initial experience has been very encouraging: the destruction of valves is precise, there are no complications, and it can be practised on a day-care basis without indwelling catheterisation. The bare fibre can be used repeatedly, thus reducing the cost of treatment.

Catheter Ablation↗
PubMed2000

Congenital hepatoportal arteriovenous fistula: report of a case.

Fistulae between the hepatic artery and portal vein, known as hepatoportal arteriovenous fistula (HPAVF), most commonly occur secondary to trauma or malignancy. Congenital HPAVF is an extremely rare anomaly and only 11 pediatric cases have been documented to date HPAVF causes portal hypertension with the reversal of flow in the portal circulation, leading to hyperemia and congestion of the bowel, causing severe ascites, gastrointestinal bleeding, anemia, and malabsorption. The diagnosis is first made by Doppler sonography, then confirmed by angiography. HPAVF is most effectively treated by performing either ligation of the hepatic artery or percutaneous transcatheter embolization. We describe herein the case of an 8-month-old boy diagnosed to have congenital HPAVF by duplex Doppler sonography and confirmed by digital subtraction angiography, who was successfully managed by percutaneous transcatheter embolization of the feeding right hepatic artery. A review of the previously reported 11 cases of infants with this unusual anomaly, examining presentation, management, and outcome, is also presented.

Arteriovenous Fistula↗