Hypercapnia and Acidosis During Open and Thoracoscopic Repair of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia and Esophageal Atresia

Abstract

This pilot randomized controlled trial shows that thoracoscopic repair of CDH is associated with prolonged and severe intraoperative hypercapnia and acidosis, compared with open surgery. These findings do not support the use of thoracoscopy with CO2 insufflation and conventional ventilation for the repair of CDH, calling into question the safety of this practice. The effect of thoracoscopy on blood gases during repair of EA/TEF in neonates requires further evaluation. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01467245).