EFFICACY OF SOMATOSTATIN ON GASTRO-INTESTINAL FUNCTION IN CHILDREN WITH ACUTE ABDOMEN

Abstract

Introduction: The effectiveness of somatostatin in the management of acute abdominal discomfort in children is the focus of this study. Evaluating its efficacy in alleviating symptoms, enhancing gastrointestinal function, and maybe shortening the length of hospitalization are the main goals. The study's overarching goal is to fill gaps in our knowledge of somatostatin's function in treating acute abdominal pain in children by shedding light on its therapeutic effects.

Aim and objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of somatostatin in pediatric acute abdominal cases and its effects on gastrointestinal function, with the aim of determining prospective therapeutic advantages.

Method: The study has included 80 children receiving acute abdominal surgery during the period of  one year. Two groups, Observation and Control, were formed. The Observation group received Somatostatin, while the Control group received hemostasis therapy and post-surgical antibiotics. Both groups exhibited similar demographics and acute abdominal conditions. The authors did follow-up study and compared the postoperative recovery conditions, gastrointestinal hormone levels, stress indicators, post operative complications between the groups statistically. The study, authorized by our hospital, adhered to informed consent. Inclusion criteria comprised patients presenting with acute abdomen, undergoing surgery, and completing the treatment protocol. Exclusions included serious organic disorders, massive intra-abdominal hemorrhage, hematological diseases, and underlying or chronic conditions.

Result: The study found that postoperative recovery conditions for children in the Control and Observation groups, showcasing significant group differences in various parameters. The Observation group demonstrated quicker recovery, with shorter times for first anal exhaust (26±6 hours) and bowel sound recovery (21±5 hours) compared to the Control group (38±5 and 30±6 hours, respectively). Additionally, the Observation group exhibited shorter first bowel movement time, reduced 24-hour gastrointestinal decompression quantity, smaller abdominal circumference, and a shorter duration of stay, all statistically significant (p < 0.002), indicating positive surgical outcomes. The study also compares post-surgery complications, revealing lower incidence in the Observation group (8%) compared to the Control group (26%) (p = 0.013), with no significant difference in specific complications except for incisional hernias.

Conclusion: In conclusion, administration of somatostatin during pediatric acute abdominal surgery improves prognosis, decreases complications, and alleviates postoperative stress.

Keywords: Somatostatin, intussusceptions, volvulus, diverticulums, necrotizing enterocolitis.