Purpose: The establishment of enteral feeding is the end point of any intestinal anastomosis. This study examined the effects of early feeding (EF) as compared to delayed feeding (DF) on postoperative outcomes after intestinal anastomosis in children. Methods: This was a randomized controlled pilot study to assess the effect of EF vs. DF in terms of time to reach full feed, along with wound infection and anastomotic leak. Results: Twenty-eight patients were enrolled in both study groups. The median time to first feed in EF was 60 hours and 96 hours in DF. The median time to first bowel sound was 42 hours in EF and 48 hours in DF (p=0.208). The median time to first bowel movement was 72 hours in EF and 72 in DF (p=0.820). The median time of postoperative hospital stay was 5.5 days in EF and 6.0 days in DF (p=0.01). There was no significant difference in complications of wound infection, wound dehiscence, relook surgery, or anastomotic leak in both groups. Conclusion EF after intestinal anastomosis is safe and feasible in children after intestinal anastomosis.

Morgagni hernia (MH) is a type of congenital diaphragmatic hernia that is rare and without any distinctive presentation. Chest radiographs can miss the diagnosis when solid organs instead of bowel loops are herniated. Echocardiography can perplex the diagnosis instead of aiding if MH is not suspected. We are here discussing the presentation and management of a neonate with MH, which was referred to our institute as a congenital heart disease.