Radiology, histology and short-term outcome of asymptomatic congenital thoracic malformations

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and short‐term outcome of our management of asymptomatic children with antenatally diagnosed congenital thoracic malformations (CTM), compared with recommendations from a recent review and meta‐analysis. Methods: Twenty‐two asymptomatic children with CTM, born in January 1, 2002 to January 8, 2009 were reviewed. Data on complications and respiratory symptoms were collected. Results: No severe respiratory symptoms were recorded. Seventeen children were referred to surgery. Complications were seen in one child. The final diagnoses were congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) in 13 children, two had sequestrations, and two had other significant malformations. Five children had minor malformations and did not undergo surgery. No malignancies were reported. Conclusion: Elective surgery at 1 year of age is safe and carries no apparent risk to asymptomatic children with CTM. The rate of complications was equal to that reported in a recent review and meta‐analysis.