[Advantages and limits of primary final correction of congenital abnormalities]

Complete correction of malformations in the first hour or days of life has always been the target of pediatric surgeons. The possible halt of palliative operations involving the application of stomata in the trachea, esophagus, stomach, bowels and at the diverting urinary tract is to lighten the situation for parents and neonatologists. Requirements for a definitive primary surgical correction are an accurate diagnosis and careful selection of the child. Criteria include not only age and bodyweight, but also the presence of co-existing malformations, diseases and complications. Thus it is also possible to correct complex malformations primarily in one operation and to withdraw the use of stomata.