Optimal timing for elective resection of asymptomatic congenital pulmonary airway malformations

Purpose: We sought to determine optimal timing for CPAM resection within the first year of life. Methods: We queried the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program pediatric database from 2012 to 2015 for elective CPAM resections on patients less than 1. year of age. Patients were divided by age in months: 1-3 (n = 57), 4-6 (n = 135), and 6-12 (n = 214). Patient operative variables and 30-day postoperative outcomes were compared. Results: A total of 406 patients were included with no differences in demographics or comorbidities. Median operative time increased with each older age category (115. min, 152. min, 163. min, respectively; p. <. 0.01). Thoracoscopic approach was less utilized in 1-3. months (40.4%) compared to the older two age categories (65.9% and 69.6%, respectively; p. <. 0.01). There were no differences by age in major complications, conversion to open, or readmissions. On multivariate analysis, ASA class. ≥. 3 (p. <. 0.01) and prolonged operative time (p. <. 0.01) were associated with a major complication. Furthermore, operations on patients aged 6-12. months were associated with increased operative time (p. <. 0.01) regardless of operative approach. Conclusion: Elective CPAM resections are equally safe in patients 1-12. months of age. Earlier resection including both open and thoracoscopic resection is associated with decreased operative time. Level of Evidence: IIc, Outcomes Research.