Simultaneous superior and inferior vena cava pressure recordings in giant omphalocele repair--a possible guideline for prevention of postoperative circulatory complications.

Eleven children underwent second stage repair of giant omphaloceles containing the liver. Simultaneous SVC and IVC pressure before, during and after closure of the abdominal wall was recorded. In all patients with circulatory complications the SVC pressure decreased following surgery. The postoperative pressure ratios in IVC and SVC (Formula: see text) was found to be four times greater in the group with complications. It is suggested that this ratio might serve as an important index in the prediction of abdominal wall closure feasibility in giant omphaloceles.