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Adams SE, Perera MRS, Fung S, Maxton J, Karpelowsky J. Non-operative management of uncomplicated appendicitis in children: a randomized, controlled, non-inferiority study evaluating safety and efficacy. ANZ J Surg 2024. [PMID: 38873960 DOI: 10.1111/ans.19119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Appendicitis is the commonest paediatric surgical emergency. Adult studies suggest non-operative management (NOM) may have a place in care. There have been no adequately powered randomized controlled trials in children. OBJECTIVE to determine the safety and efficacy of NOM for paediatric simple appendicitis. METHODS A non-inferiority randomized controlled trial was conducted comparing operative (OM) to NOM of SA in children aged five-15 years. Primary outcome was treatment success (no unplanned or unnecessary operation, or complication) at 30 days and 12 months, with a non-inferiority margin of 15%. (anzctr.org.au: ACTRN12616000788471). RESULTS From 11 June 2016 to 30 November 2020, 222 children were randomized: 94 (42.34%) to OM and 128 (57.66%) to NOM. Non-inferiority of NOM was not demonstrated at either time point, with 45.67% of NOM patients subsequently undergoing operation. There was no significant difference in complications. CONCLUSIONS While noninferiority was not shown, NOM was safe, with no difference in adverse outcomes between the two groups. Further research to refine the place of NOM of simple appendicitis in children is required, including nuanced patient selection, longer term evaluation, the place of choice, and the acceptability of the treatment for children and their carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Elizabeth Adams
- Toby Bowring Department of Paediatric Surgery, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Meegodage Roshell Swindri Perera
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Saskia Fung
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jordon Maxton
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathan Karpelowsky
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Decker E, Ndzi A, Kenny S, Harwood R. Systematic Review and Meta-analysis to Compare the Short- and Long-term Outcomes of Non-operative Management With Early Operative Management of Simple Appendicitis in Children After the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Pediatr Surg 2024; 59:1050-1057. [PMID: 38158255 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2023.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-operative management (NOM) of simple appendicitis is becoming an increasingly researched treatment option. This systematic review aims to describe the short and long-term failure rates of NOM and the complication rate of appendicectomy in children with simple appendicitis. METHODS The systematic review was registered a priori (CRD42022322149). Study inclusion criteria are: participants aged ≤ 18 years of age; groups undergoing both NOM and appendicectomy for simple appendicitis; outcomes including one or more of: NOM failure rate at 30 days or 1 year and beyond; study design: RCT or case control study. Four databases were searched and 3 reviewers determined study eligibility and data extraction. Risk of bias was assessed and meta-analysis was performed using Stata. RESULTS The database search identified 2731 articles, 14 studies met the inclusion criteria; 4 RCTs and 10 case controlled studies. All studies had moderate-serious risk of bias. There were no deaths in either group in any study. Meta-analysis demonstrated a 30 day failure rate of 20 % (95 % CI 11-29 %) and 11 studies reported failure rate at 1 year or beyond at 32 % (95 % CI 25-38 %). Rates of significant complications of appendicectomy was 1 % (95 % CI 0-1 %). CONCLUSIONS Non-operative management of simple appendicitis in children is safe, with moderate early success. The failure rate increases over time, resulting in eventual appendicectomy in a third of the children diagnosed with appendicitis. These data will enable clinicians to have an informed discussion with children and their parents about their treatment options for simple appendicitis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Decker
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Agnes Ndzi
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Simon Kenny
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK; ISMIB, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK; Children and Young People Transformation Programme, NHSE/I, UK
| | - Rachel Harwood
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK; ISMIB, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK; Children and Young People Transformation Programme, NHSE/I, UK.
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3
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Snyder KB, Hunter CJ, Buonpane CL. Perforated Appendicitis in Children: Management, Microbiology, and Antibiotic Stewardship. Paediatr Drugs 2024; 26:277-286. [PMID: 38653916 DOI: 10.1007/s40272-024-00630-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Although appendicitis has been described for more than 300 years, its optimal management remains a topic of active investigation. Acute appendicitis is the most common cause of peritonitis in children, and rates of perforated appendicitis are much higher in children than in adults. Increased risk for perforated appendicitis in children is related to a delay in diagnosis due to age, size, access to care, and more. Surgical options include immediate appendectomy versus nonoperative management with intravenous antibiotics ± a drainage procedure, with a subsequent interval appendectomy. Microbiota of perforated appendicitis in children most often includes Escherichia coli, Bacteroides fragilis, Streptococcus, and more. Even though the most common organisms are known, there is a large variety of practice when it comes to postoperative antibiotic management in these patients. Studies discuss the benefits of mono- versus dual or triple therapy without a particular consensus regarding what to use. This is reflected across differing practices at various institutions. In this review, we aim to explore the implications of perforated appendicitis in pediatrics, common organisms seen, antibiotic regimen coverage, and the implications of variations of practice. Resistance to commonly used broad-spectrum antibiotics is evolving, therefore minimization of care variability is needed for improved patient outcomes and proper antibiotic stewardship.
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Pacilli M, Kamaleswaran R. New Genetic Biomarkers to Diagnose Pediatric Appendicitis. JAMA Pediatr 2024; 178:341-342. [PMID: 38372987 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.6731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Pacilli
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Monash Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rishikesan Kamaleswaran
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta
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5
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Mostafa R, El-Atawi K. Misdiagnosis of Acute Appendicitis Cases in the Emergency Room. Cureus 2024; 16:e57141. [PMID: 38681367 PMCID: PMC11055627 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute appendicitis (AA) is one of the most frequent surgical emergencies, especially in pediatric populations, with its misdiagnosis in emergency settings presenting significant health risks. This misdiagnosis leads to various complications, such as delayed treatment or unnecessary surgeries. Factors such as age, gender, and comorbidities contribute to diagnostic errors, leading to complications such as peritonitis and increased negative appendectomy rates. This underscores the importance of accurate clinical assessment and awareness of common pitfalls, such as cognitive biases and over-reliance on laboratory tests. This review delves into the prevalence of AA misdiagnosis, its health burden, and the challenges inherent in the diagnostic process. It scrutinizes the effectiveness of different diagnostic approaches, including clinical assessment and imaging techniques. The treatment paradigms for AA are also explored, focusing on surgical interventions and the potential of conservative treatments using antibiotics. The review underscores the criticality of precise diagnosis in preventing adverse outcomes and ensuring effective treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reham Mostafa
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Al Zahra Hospital Dubai (AZHD), Dubai, ARE
| | - Khaled El-Atawi
- Pediatrics/Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Latifa Women and Children Hospital, Dubai, ARE
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6
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Elliver M, Salö M, Roth B, Ohlsson B, Hagander L, Gudjonsdottir J. Associations between Th1-related cytokines and complicated pediatric appendicitis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4613. [PMID: 38409170 PMCID: PMC10897334 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53756-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of appendicitis is not understood fully, and the diagnosis can be challenging. Previous research has suggested an association between a T helper (Th) 1-dependent immune response and complicated appendicitis. This prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the association between serum concentrations of the Th1-associated cytokines interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A and tumor necrosis factor beta (TNF-β) and the risk of complicated appendicitis in children. Appendicitis severity was determined through histopathological examination. A total of 137 children < 15 years with appendicitis were included with a median age of 10 years (IQR 8-12); 86 (63%) were boys, and 58 (42%) had complicated appendicitis. Children with complicated appendicitis had significantly higher concentrations of serum IL-6 and IL-10, and lower of TNF-β. After adjustment for age, symptom duration, and presence of appendicolith in a multivariable logistic regression, a higher concentration of IL-6 remained associated with an increased risk of complicated appendicitis (aOR 1.001 [95% CI 1.000-1.002], p = 0.02). Serum concentrations of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-10, IL-17A and TNF-β were not significantly associated with the risk of complicated appendicitis. In conclusion, our results suggests that the systemic inflammatory response in complicated appendicitis is complex and not solely Th1-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilda Elliver
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Martin Salö
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Bodil Roth
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Bodil Ohlsson
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Lars Hagander
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Johanna Gudjonsdottir
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Surgery, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
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7
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Jobson M, Hall NJ, Stanton M. Nonoperative Management of Appendicitis in Children: An Update. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2024; 43:e11-e13. [PMID: 38100734 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000004141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Jobson
- From the Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Southampton Children's Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Nigel J Hall
- From the Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Southampton Children's Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
- University Surgery Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Stanton
- From the Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Southampton Children's Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
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Yuen AT, Suessman A. Stumped by a Case of Appendicitis After Appendectomy. Ochsner J 2024; 24:147-150. [PMID: 38912182 PMCID: PMC11192215 DOI: 10.31486/toj.23.0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Stump appendicitis-a rare, delayed complication of appendectomy-is most commonly managed with surgical exploration and stump appendectomy. Conservative management in the pediatric population is poorly characterized in the literature. Case Report: We report a case of a 10-year-old male who was diagnosed with stump appendicitis and initially treated nonoperatively. He received intravenous antibiotics and supportive therapy while in the hospital, was discharged on a course of oral antibiotics, and remained asymptomatic for the following 9 weeks until he underwent an elective interval stump appendectomy. We also review the literature on this uncommon condition and treatment plan. Conclusion: Considering stump appendicitis in the differential of children with history of appendectomy is imperative. Nonoperative management of stump appendicitis may be successful and beneficial in select pediatric cases compared to the standard surgical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ami Takei Yuen
- The University of Queensland Medical School, Ochsner Clinical School, New Orleans, LA
| | - Anna Suessman
- The University of Queensland Medical School, Ochsner Clinical School, New Orleans, LA
- Pediatric Emergency Department, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA
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Perveen S, Akhtar J, Ali S, Jabbar A. Feasibility of nonoperative treatment of acute appendicitis in children: a prospective cohort study. Singapore Med J 2023:384051. [PMID: 37675678 DOI: 10.4103/singaporemedj.smj-2021-406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction The management of acute appendicitis is a matter of debate even in contemporary era. Non-operative management is proposed as a valid treatment option for acute appendicitis in children. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted from April 2020 to September 2021 at the National Institute of Child Health, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan, in children aged ≤ 12 years who were suspected of having acute appendicitis. Children with diffuse peritonitis and complex mass on ultrasonography were excluded. All children were kept nil per oral and started on intravenous fluid hydration and antibiotics. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS version 20. Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were applied to determine the statistical significance. Results A total of 190 patients were admitted with a diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Thirty-two children with advanced disease underwent surgery. The remaining 158 patients were managed with nonoperative treatment. In 138 (87.3%) patients, resolution of symptoms occurred. Twenty (12.7%) patients underwent operation during the same admission (non-responders). Thirteen (9.4%) patients had recurrence of symptoms and underwent appendectomy. A total of 33 (20.9%) patients had appendectomy either at the primary admission or after discharge. Non-operative treatment was more likely to be successful in patients with symptoms of ≤ 24 h duration (P = 0.02), total leucocyte count of <12 × 109 cells/L (P = 0.005) and smaller size of the appendix on ultrasound (P = 0.001). Conclusion Among children with uncomplicated acute appendicitis, a non-operative approach resulted in resolution of symptoms in 87.3% of patients at the initial admission. Failure of non-operative treatment and recurrence of disease after discharge from the hospital occurred in 9.4% of patients after successful initial treatment. Thus, the overall success rate at a mean follow-up of 3 months was about 78%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shazia Perveen
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, National Institute of Child Health, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Jamshed Akhtar
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, National Institute of Child Health, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sajid Ali
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, National Institute of Child Health, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Jabbar
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, National Institute of Child Health, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
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10
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Gil LA, Deans KJ, Minneci PC. Appendicitis in Children. Adv Pediatr 2023; 70:105-122. [PMID: 37422289 DOI: 10.1016/j.yapd.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
The management of pediatric appendicitis continues to advance with the development of evidence-based treatment algorithms and a recent shift toward patient-centered treatment approaches. Further research should focus on development of standardized institution-specific diagnostic algorithms to minimize rates of missed diagnosis and appendiceal perforation and refinement of evidence-based clinical treatment pathways that reduce complication rates and minimize health care resource utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay A Gil
- Pediatric Surgery Research Fellow, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43206, USA
| | - Katherine J Deans
- Department of Surgery, Nemours Children's Health, Delaware Valley, 1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
| | - Peter C Minneci
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 611 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, OH 43206, USA.
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11
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Zachos K, Kolonitsiou F, Panagidis A, Gkentzi D, Fouzas S, Alexopoulos V, Kostopoulou E, Roupakias S, Vervenioti A, Dassios T, Georgiou G, Sinopidis X. Association of the Bacteria of the Vermiform Appendix and the Peritoneal Cavity with Complicated Acute Appendicitis in Children. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13111839. [PMID: 37296691 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13111839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary infection has been questioned as the pathogenetic cause of acute appendicitis. We attempted to identify the bacteria involved and to investigate if their species, types, or combinations affected the severity of acute appendicitis in children. METHODS Samples from both the appendiceal lumen and the peritoneal cavity of 72 children who underwent appendectomy were collected to perform bacterial culture analysis. The outcomes were studied to identify if and how they were associated with the severity of the disease. Regression analysis was performed to identify any risk factors associated with complicated appendicitis. RESULTS Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus species were the most common pathogens found in the study population. The same microorganisms, either combined or separate, were the most common in the appendiceal lumen and the peritoneal cavity of patients with complicated appendicitis. Gram-negative bacteria and polymicrobial cultures in the peritoneal fluid and in the appendiceal lumen were associated with complicated appendicitis. Polymicrobial cultures in the peritoneal cavity presented a four times higher risk of complicated appendicitis. CONCLUSIONS Polymicrobial presentation and Gram-negative bacteria are associated with complicated appendicitis. Antibiotic regimens should target the combinations of the most frequently identified pathogens, speculating the value of early antipseudomonal intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fevronia Kolonitsiou
- Department of Microbiology, University of Patras School of Medicine, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Antonios Panagidis
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital, 26331 Patras, Greece
| | - Despoina Gkentzi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Patras School of Medicine, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Sotirios Fouzas
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Patras School of Medicine, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | | | - Eirini Kostopoulou
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Patras School of Medicine, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Stylianos Roupakias
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Patras School of Medicine, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Aggeliki Vervenioti
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Patras School of Medicine, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Theodore Dassios
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Patras School of Medicine, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - George Georgiou
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital, 26331 Patras, Greece
| | - Xenophon Sinopidis
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Patras School of Medicine, 26504 Patras, Greece
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12
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Bindi E, Nino F, Pierangeli F, Ilari M, Bollettini T, Chiarella E, Mariscoli F, Gentilucci G, Cruccetti A, Cobellis G. Transumbilical laparoscopic-assisted appendectomy <em>versus</em> laparoscopic appendectomy in children: a single center experience. LA PEDIATRIA MEDICA E CHIRURGICA 2023; 45. [PMID: 37114377 DOI: 10.4081/pmc.2023.306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Laparoscopic Appendectomy (LPSA) is the first choice for appendectomy in pediatric surgery. Trans-Umbilical Laparoscopic Assisted Appendicectomy (TULAA) is another used technique. We compared both these procedures used for the treatment of acute appendicitis. The study was conducted between January 2019 to December 2020. Patients were divided into two groups: LPSA and TULAA groups. The collected data were: operative time, number of conversions, time of canalization and hospital stay. A total of 181 patients were included: 73 were kept in the LPSA and 108 in the TULAA group. Mean operative time was 70.9 minutes (range 45-130 min) for LPS and 56.4 (30-145 min) for TULAA group (p <0.0001). Complications rate showed no statistically significant difference between both the two groups. However, conversions showed a statistically significant difference (p=0.04). Both techniques showed similar results. TULAA technique takes a significantly shorter operating time. The selection between LPSA and TULAA techniques depends on the experience of the surgeon's work and the personal laparoscopic learning curve. In our experience LPSA was a useful technique to improve the laparoscopic skill of the pediatric surgery residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo Bindi
- Pediatric Surgery Unit, Salesi Children's Hospital, Ancona, Italy; Università Politecnica of Marche, Ancona.
| | - Fabiano Nino
- Pediatric Surgery Unit, Salesi Children's Hospital, Ancona.
| | | | - Michele Ilari
- Pediatric Surgery Unit, Salesi Children's Hospital, Ancona.
| | | | | | | | | | - Alba Cruccetti
- Pediatric Surgery Unit, Salesi Children's Hospital, Ancona.
| | - Giovanni Cobellis
- Pediatric Surgery Unit, Salesi Children's Hospital, Ancona, Italy; Università Politecnica of Marche, Ancona.
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Raeisi R, Azizi M, Amiri J, Ghorbanpour M, Esna-Ashari F. Accuracy Evaluation of Pediatric Appendicitis Scoring (PAS) Method in Differentiating Nonspecific Abdominal Pain from Appendicitis. Int J Prev Med 2023; 14:40. [PMID: 37351062 PMCID: PMC10284213 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_539_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed at evaluating the accuracy of the pediatric appendicitis scoring method in differentiating nonspecific abdominal pain (NSAP) from appendicitis. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on 391 children who were hospitalized in the emergency ward due to acute abdominal pain suspected of appendicitis . Pediatric Appendicitis Score (PAS), C-reactive protein (CRP), and appendicitis pathology results of patients undergoing surgery were recorded. Results The results showed that the no significant difference was found among patients in the three experimental groups (appendicitis, specific abdominal pain except appendicitis, and NSAP) with respect to temperature (p = 0.212), but the other variables were significantly different. Findings showed that high CRP frequency, pain migration to right lower quadrant (RLQ), tenderness in right iliac fossa (RIF), anorexia, leukocytosis, high neutrophil, and mean tenderness in RLQ in the appendicitis group were higher than those in the other two groups (p = 0.001). The PAS questionnaire can also be used as a reliable questionnaire with appropriate sensitivity (0.929) and specificity (0.993), and this questionnaire along with detailed clinical examinations could reduce the rate of negative appendectomy to less than 1%. Conclusions This study showed high accuracy of PAS in diagnosing children with appendicitis and differentiating appendicitis from cases of NSAP and specific abdominal pain other than appendicitis. The PAS system could also significantly reduce cases of negative appendicitis. Although high CRP had an excellent ability to diagnose appendicitis, its accuracy was lower than PAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roya Raeisi
- Department of Pediatrics, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mona Azizi
- Department of Pediatrics, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Jalaleddin Amiri
- Department of Pediatrics, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | | | - Farzaneh Esna-Ashari
- Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- School of Public Health and Research Center for Health Sciences, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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14
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Wu Z, Zhao L, Feng S, Luo J. Hyperfibrinogenemia and hyponatremia as predictors of perforated appendicitis in children: A retrospective cohort study. Int J Colorectal Dis 2023; 38:72. [PMID: 36930335 DOI: 10.1007/s00384-023-04362-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive value of hyperfibrinogenemia and hyponatremia for perforated appendicitis in children. METHODS A retrospective review of 521 pediatric patients (≤ 15 years) with acute appendicitis confirmed by histopathology from January 2017 to December 2020 was performed. Patients were divided in two groups, those with non-perforated (n = 379; 73%) and perforated appendicitis (n = 142; 27%). The serum values of sodium and fibrinogen were taken before surgery. We performed the receiver operating characteristic analysis for the two biochemical markers. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for perforated appendicitis in the presence of hyponatremia and hyperfibrinogenemia were calculated. RESULTS Hyperfibrinogenemia (≥ 4.0 g/L) was found in 58.45% of perforated appendicitis and 104 of 142 (73.34%) children with perforated appendicitis had hyponatremia (≤ 135 mmol/L). The perforated appendicitis group had a higher mean fibrinogen concentration (P = 0.001). There was a statistically significant difference in mean serum sodium levels between the perforated appendicitis and non-perforated appendicitis groups (P = 0.016). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for fibrinogen, sodium and combination of the both markers shown the combination had the largest area under the curve in identifying children with perforated acute appendicitis (0.858) (95% CI, 0.82-0.90) compared with fibrinogen (0.815) (95% CI, 0.77-0.86) and sodium 0.818 (95% CI, 0.78-0.86) alone. Furthermore, the combination of both markers had the best positive and negative predictive value for appendix perforation compared to fibrinogen and sodium. CONCLUSION Hyponatremia and/or hyperfibrinogenemia are excellent markers for predicting perforated appendicitis in children. We propose that plasma sodium and/or fibrinogen concentrations be utilized as a supplementary to guide individual treatment decisions in children with appendicitis, such as surgery timing and nonoperative management options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenfei Wu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hangzhou Children's Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingling Zhao
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
| | - Shaoguang Feng
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hangzhou Children's Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinjian Luo
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine (PCCM), Anji Branch of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Anji County People's Hospital, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313300, China.
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15
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Lie JJ, Nabata K, Zhang JW, Zhao D, Park CM, Hameed SM, Dawe P, Hamilton TD. Factors associated with recurrent appendicitis after nonoperative management. Am J Surg 2023; 225:915-920. [PMID: 36925417 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2023.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study is to identify predictors for recurrent appendicitis in patients with appendicitis previously treated nonoperatively. METHODS This is a prospective cohort study of all adult patients with appendicitis treated at a tertiary care hospital. Patient demographics, radiographic information, management, and clinical outcomes were recorded. The primary outcome was recurrent appendicitis within 6 months after discharge from the index admission. Given the competing risk of interval appendectomy, a time-to-event competing-risk analysis was performed. RESULTS Of the 699 patients presenting with appendicitis, 74 were treated nonoperatively (35 [47%] were women; median [IQR] age, 48 [33,64] years), and 21 patients (29%) had recurrent appendicitis. On univariate and multivariate analysis, presence of an appendicolith on imaging was the only factor associated with a higher risk of recurrent appendicitis (p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS The presence of appendicolith was associated with an increased risk of developing recurrent appendicitis within 6 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J Lie
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Kylie Nabata
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Jenny W Zhang
- Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Darren Zhao
- Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Chan Mi Park
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Hebrew SeniorLife, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - S Morad Hameed
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Philip Dawe
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Trevor D Hamilton
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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16
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Byun J, Park S, Hwang SM. Diagnostic Algorithm Based on Machine Learning to Predict Complicated Appendicitis in Children Using CT, Laboratory, and Clinical Features. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13050923. [PMID: 36900066 PMCID: PMC10001049 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13050923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
To establish a diagnostic algorithm for predicting complicated appendicitis in children based on CT and clinical features. METHODS This retrospective study included 315 children (<18 years old) who were diagnosed with acute appendicitis and underwent appendectomy between January 2014 and December 2018. A decision tree algorithm was used to identify important features associated with the condition and to develop a diagnostic algorithm for predicting complicated appendicitis, including CT and clinical findings in the development cohort (n = 198). Complicated appendicitis was defined as gangrenous or perforated appendicitis. The diagnostic algorithm was validated using a temporal cohort (n = 117). The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) from the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were calculated to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the algorithm. RESULTS All patients with periappendiceal abscesses, periappendiceal inflammatory masses, and free air on CT were diagnosed with complicated appendicitis. In addition, intraluminal air, transverse diameter of the appendix, and ascites were identified as important CT findings for predicting complicated appendicitis. C-reactive protein (CRP) level, white blood cell (WBC) count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and body temperature also showed important associations with complicated appendicitis. The AUC, sensitivity, and specificity of the diagnostic algorithm comprising features were 0.91 (95% CI, 0.86-0.95), 91.8% (84.5-96.4), and 90.0% (82.4-95.1) in the development cohort, and 0.7 (0.63-0.84), 85.9% (75.0-93.4), and 58.5% (44.1-71.9) in test cohort, respectively. CONCLUSION We propose a diagnostic algorithm based on a decision tree model using CT and clinical findings. This algorithm can be used to differentiate between complicated and noncomplicated appendicitis and to provide an appropriate treatment plan for children with acute appendicitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieun Byun
- Department of Radiology, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongkeun Park
- Machine Intelligence Laboratory, Department of Smart Automobile, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (S.P.); (S.M.H.)
| | - Sook Min Hwang
- Department of Radiology, Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Seoul 07441, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (S.P.); (S.M.H.)
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17
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Yap TL, Li FX, Lee IN, Chen Y, Choo CS, Sim SW, Rai R, Ong LY. Covid-19 Pandemic Strategy for Treatment of Acute Uncomplicated Appendicitis with Antibiotics- Risk Categorization and Shared Decision-Making. J Pediatr Surg 2023:S0022-3468(23)00172-0. [PMID: 36931940 PMCID: PMC9946726 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2023.02.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a protocol was adopted by our department on antibiotics treatment for Acute Uncomplicated Appendicitis (AUA). Our study aimed to determine the feasibility and safety of non-operative treatment (NOT), compared to upfront laparoscopic appendectomy (LA), for AUA in children during the pandemic. METHOD Our prospective comparative study was conducted from May 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021. Patient selection criteria included: age ≥5 years, abdominal pain duration ≤48 h, ultrasound (US)/Computered Tomography scan confirmation of AUA, US appendiceal diameter 6-11 mm with no features of perforation/abscess collection and no faecolith. For NOT patients, intravenous antibiotics were administered for 24-48 h followed by oral for 10-day course. Comparison was performed between patients whose parents preferred NOT to those who opted for up-front appendectomy. Primary outcomes were NOT success at index admission, early and late NOT failure rates till 27 months. Secondary outcomes were differences in complication rate, hospital length of stay (LOS) and cost between groups. RESULTS 77 patients were recruited: 43 (55.8%) underwent NOT while 34 (44.2%) patients opted for LA. Success of NOT at index admission was 90.7% (39/43). Overall, NOT failure rate at 27 months' follow-up was 37.2% (16/43). Of the NOT failures, 1 appendix was normal on histology while only 1 was perforated. There were no significant differences in secondary outcomes between both groups except for LOS of late NOT failure. Cost for upfront LA was nearly thrice that of NOT. CONCLUSION Our stringent COVID protocol together with shared decision-making with parents is a safe and feasible treatment option during a crisis situation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Treatment study, Level II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Te-Lu Yap
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, KK Women's & Children's Hospital, Singapore; Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore.
| | - Fay Xz Li
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, KK Women's & Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | | | - Yong Chen
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, KK Women's & Children's Hospital, Singapore; Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore
| | - Candy Sc Choo
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, KK Women's & Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | - Siam Wee Sim
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, KK Women's & Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | - Rambha Rai
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, KK Women's & Children's Hospital, Singapore; Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore
| | - Lin Yin Ong
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, KK Women's & Children's Hospital, Singapore; Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore
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18
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Maret-Ouda J, Ström JC, Roelstraete B, Emilsson L, Joshi AD, Khalili H, Ludvigsson JF. Appendectomy and Future Risk of Microscopic Colitis: A Population-Based Case-Control Study in Sweden. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 21:467-475.e2. [PMID: 35716902 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2022.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Microscopic colitis (MC) is an inflammatory bowel disease and a common cause of chronic diarrhea. Appendectomy has been suggested to have immunomodulating effects in the colon, influencing the risk of gastrointestinal disease. The relationship between appendectomy and MC has only been sparsely studied. METHODS This was a case-control study based on the nationwide ESPRESSO (Epidemiology Strengthened by histoPathology Reports in Sweden) cohort, consisting of histopathological examinations in Sweden, linked to national registers. Patients with MC were matched to population controls by age, sex, calendar year of biopsy, and county of residence. Data on antecedent appendectomy and comorbidities were retrieved from the Patient Register. Unconditional logistic regression models were conducted presenting odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) adjusted for country of birth and matching factors. Further subanalyses were made based on MC subtypes (lymphocytic colitis and collagenous colitis), follow-up time postappendectomy and severity of appendicitis. RESULTS The study included 14,520 cases of MC and 69,491 controls, among these 7.6% (n = 1103) and 5.1% (n = 3510), respectively, had a previous appendectomy ≥1 year prior to MC or matching date. Patients with a previous appendectomy had an increased risk of MC in total (OR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.40-1.61) and per the collagenous colitis subtype (OR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.48-1.88) or lymphocytic colitis subtype (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.30-1.55). The risk remained elevated throughout follow-up, and the highest risk was observed in noncomplicated appendicitis. CONCLUSIONS This nationwide case-control study found a modestly increased risk of developing MC following appendectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Maret-Ouda
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Centre for Clinical Research Sörmland, Uppsala University, Eskilstuna, Sweden.
| | - Jennifer C Ström
- Centre for Clinical Research Sörmland, Uppsala University, Eskilstuna, Sweden
| | - Bjorn Roelstraete
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Louise Emilsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; School of Medical Science, University of Örebro, Örebro, Sweden; Värmlands Nysäter Health Care Center and Centre for Clinical Research, County Council of Värmland, Karlstad, Sweden; Department of General Practice, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Amit D Joshi
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Gastroenterology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachussets
| | - Hamed Khalili
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Gastroenterology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachussets; Clinical and Translational Epidemiology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachussets
| | - Jonas F Ludvigsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York; Department of Paediatrics, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro, Sweden
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19
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Stackievicz R, Milner R, Werner M, Arnon S, Steiner Z. Follow-up ultrasonographic findings among children treated conservatively for uncomplicated acute appendicitis. Pediatr Radiol 2023; 53:223-234. [PMID: 36112194 PMCID: PMC9483395 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-022-05497-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ultrasound is an accurate tool for diagnosing acute appendicitis. Conservative treatment for uncomplicated acute appendicitis is feasible and safe in children. However, no sonographic follow-up results from children with nonoperatively managed acute appendicitis have been reported. OBJECTIVE To describe the sonographic appearance of the appendix at follow-up ultrasound and to attempt to identify signs predictive of recurrent acute appendicitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Children diagnosed with uncomplicated acute appendicitis and treated conservatively in our hospital from 2014 to 2019, and who presented for follow-up ultrasound at 3, 6 and 9 months, were included in our study. Clinical, laboratory and ultrasound data were recorded. RESULTS By the end of follow-up, 29 (14.2%) of 204 children in the cohort had developed recurrent acute appendicitis and 175 had recovered uneventfully. On follow-up ultrasound, appendiceal diameter measured > 6 mm in 56/204 (27.5%) cases at 3 months and in 9/26 (34.5%) at 6 months. After 3 months, 102/204 (50%) children had normal appendiceal diameter on ultrasound. Appendiceal diameter > 6 mm was associated with intraluminal fluid or sludge in the appendiceal lumen at 3- and 6-month follow-up (P < 0.001, P = 0.002, respectively). Comparing cases with and without recurrence, at 3-month follow-up, appendiceal diameter > 6 mm was found in 17/29 (58.6%) cases vs. 39/175 (22.3%), respectively (P < 0.001). Appendiceal diameter returned to normal in 12/19 (63.2%) cases in the nonrecurrent acute appendicitis group compared with 2/7 (28.6%) in the recurrent acute appendicitis group (P = 0.05) at the 6-month follow-up. Intraluminal fluid or sludge was detected more frequently in the recurrent acute appendicitis versus the nonrecurrent acute appendicitis group at 3- (P < 0.001) and 6-month (P = 0.001) follow-up. CONCLUSION Progressive normalization of appendiceal diameter was noted on follow-up ultrasound. The prevalence of both appendiceal diameter > 6 mm and intraluminal fluid or sludge were found to be increased in children who later developed recurrent acute appendicitis. Ultrasound appears to be a useful tool for follow-up in children with conservatively treated uncomplicated acute appendicitis and possibly might help predict recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodica Stackievicz
- Department of Radiology, Meir Medical Center, 59 Tchernichovsky St., Kfar Saba, 4428164, Israel. .,Department of Radiology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Rotem Milner
- Department of Radiology, Meir Medical Center, 59 Tchernichovsky St., Kfar Saba, 4428164, Israel
| | - Myriam Werner
- Department of Radiology, Meir Medical Center, 59 Tchernichovsky St., Kfar Saba, 4428164, Israel.,Department of Radiology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Shmuel Arnon
- Department of Neonatology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel.,Department of Pediatrics, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Zvi Steiner
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel.,Department of Pediatric Surgery, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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20
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Tang HW, Wang ZG, Huang JH, Zhang GQ, Xu YF, Zheng LL, Li TJ. The development and application of pediatric complicated appendicitis prediction model. Technol Health Care 2023; 31:2319-2329. [PMID: 37522234 DOI: 10.3233/thc-230285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute appendicitis in children refers to the acute inflammation of the appendix, which accounts for 20% ∼ 30% of cases of acute abdomen in pediatric surgery. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to establish a decision tree model of complicated appendicitis in children using appendiceal ultrasound combined with an inflammatory index and evaluated its clinical efficacy in pediatric patients. METHODS A total of 395 children admitted to the Emergency Department of the Shanghai Children's Hospital from January 2018 to December 2021 and diagnosed with appendicitis by postoperative pathology were retrospectively analyzed. According to the postoperative pathology, the children were divided into a complicated and non-complicated appendicitis group, respectively. Routine laboratory inflammatory indicators, including white blood cell count, N(%), neutrophil (Neu) count, Neu/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin were collected from the two groups. Collecting data on ultrasound examination of the appendix includes whether the appendix diameter is thickened, whether the echogenicity of the mesenteric rim surrounding the appendix is enhanced, whether there is rich blood supply in the appendix, and whether there are fecaliths in the appendix lumen. The risk factors for complicated appendicitis were screened out by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, the binary logistic regression prediction and decision tree models were established, respectively, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to verify the accuracy of the two prediction models. RESULTS Binary logistic regression analysis showed that CRP, NLR, the presence of an appendicolith, and peripheral retina echo enhancement were independent risk factors for complicated appendicitis in children (P< 0.05). The decision tree model had an overall accuracy of 79%, an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.809 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.780-0.865), and sensitivity and specificity of 71.3% and 77.7%, respectively. The logistic regression model had an overall accuracy of 74.9%, an AUC value of 0.823 (95% CI, 0.765-0.853), a sensitivity value of 80.3%, and a specificity of 71.8%. CONCLUSION This predictive model, based on ultrasound of the appendix combined with inflammatory markers, provides a useful method to assist pediatric emergency physicians in diagnosing childhood appendicitis. The decision tree model reflected the interaction of various indexes, and the model was simple, intuitive, and effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Wen Tang
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Zha-Gen Wang
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Hu Huang
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo-Qin Zhang
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun-Feng Xu
- Department of Ultrasonography, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu-Lu Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Ting-Jun Li
- Department of Emergency, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai, China
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21
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Conservative antibiotic treatment of pediatric acute uncomplicated appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic: a prospective comparative cohort study. Pediatr Surg Int 2022; 39:60. [PMID: 36562855 PMCID: PMC9786519 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-022-05344-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and cost-efficiency of antibiotic management versus laparoscopic appendectomy for acute uncomplicated appendicitis (AUA) in children during the COVID-19 pandemic when resources were limited and transmission risks uncertain. METHOD In this prospective comparative cohort study, we analyzed the data of 139 children diagnosed with AUA meeting the following inclusion criteria: 5-18 years of age, symptoms duration of ≤ 48 h, appendix diameter ≤ 11 mm and no appendicolith. Treatment outcomes between non-operative management group (78/139) and upfront laparoscopic appendectomy group (61/139) were compared. Antibiotic regimes were intravenous ceftriaxone/metronidazole or amoxicillin/clavulanic acid for 48 h, followed by oral antibiotics to complete total 10-days course. RESULTS 8/78 (10.3%) children had early failure (within 48 h) requiring appendectomy. 17/70 (24.3%) patients experienced late recurrence within mean follow-up time of 16.2 ± 4.7 months. There were no statistical differences in peri-operative complications, negative appendicectomy rate, and incidence of perforation and hospitalization duration between antibiotic and surgical treatment groups. Cost per patient in upfront surgical group was significantly higher ($6208.5 ± 5284.0) than antibiotic group ($3588.6 ± 3829.8; p = 0.001). CONCLUSION Despite 24.3% risk of recurrence of appendicitis in 16.2 ± 4.7 months, antibiotic therapy for AUA appears to be a safe and cost-effective alternative to upfront appendectomy.
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22
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Demirtürk HC, Tanriverdi HI, Taneli F, Ayhan S, Günşar C. Effectiveness of nonsurgical antibiotic treatment in the experimental appendicitis model in rats. ANNALS OF PEDIATRIC SURGERY 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43159-022-00187-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
In this study, we aimed to demonstrate efficacy and laboratory follow-up criteria of nonsurgical antibiotic treatment in uncomplicated acute appendicitis. We established an experimental appendicitis model in rats, and antibiotic treatment was evaluated by biochemical and immunohistochemical changes.
Materials and method
In the study, 28 rats were divided into 4 groups. Group 1 constituted the group of sham; group 2 was the control group that appendicitis model was created and did not receive any treatment. Group 3 was created as an appendicitis model and was given regular antibiotic treatment. In group 4, appendicitis model was created, and appendectomy was performed on the 2nd day. Blood samples were taken from the rats on the 0, 2nd, and 7th days in all groups. Rats in groups 1, 2, and 3 underwent appendectomy with laparotomy under anesthesia on the 7th day. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, and leukocyte levels were measured for biochemical analysis. In immunohistochemical evaluation, inflammation severity of the tissue samples taken from appendices was evaluated. Also, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels of tissue samples were evaluated.
Results
A statistically significant difference in CRP values was observed between groups 1 and 2 on the 7th day (p = 0.046), between groups 1 and 4 on 0 and 2nd days (p = 0.004, p = 0.004), between groups 2 and 3 on 0, 2nd, and 7th days (p = 0.018, 0.013, 0.025), between groups 2 and 4 on 0, 2nd, and 7th days (p = 0.002, p = 0.002, p = 0.009), and between groups 3 and 4 on 0 and 2nd days (p = 0.013, p = 0.025). There was a significant difference in procalcitonin values between groups 1 and 3 on the 7th day (p = 0.032) and between groups 1 and 4 on day 0 (p = 0.019). A significant difference was also observed in TNF-α and IL-6 inflammation between groups 2 and 3 (p = 0.031, p = 0.018) and between groups 2 and 4 (p = 0.031, p = 0.01).
Conclusion
Acute uncomplicated and early appendicitis may be treated with antibiotics. According to our results, CRP levels are useful as follow-up criterion in experimental appendicitis model. Clinical studies on the assessment of CRP levels in the course of nonsurgical treatment in the patients with acute appendicitis will reveal out the effectiveness of this marker.
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23
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Puputti J, Suominen JS, Luoto T, Hiltunen P, Ripatti L, Nikoskelainen M, Nuutinen S, Sinikumpu JJ, Tahkola E, Porela-Tiihonen S, Hurme S, Salminen P, Pakarinen MP. A randomized, controlled multicenter feasibility pilot trial on imaging confirmed uncomplicated acute appendicitis: Appendectomy vs. symptomatic treatment in pediatric patients (the APPSYPP) trial study protocol. Contemp Clin Trials 2022; 123:106970. [PMID: 36280033 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2022.106970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Imaging-confirmed uncomplicated acute appendicitis can be effectively and safely treated with antibiotics in most adults and children. Symptomatic treatment may have similar efficacy and safety. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The APPSYPP trial is a randomized national multicenter feasibility superiority pilot study comparing appendectomy with symptomatic treatment in children with imaging-confirmed uncomplicated acute appendicitis. INCLUSION CRITERIA 1) age ≥ 7 and < 16 years, 2) imaging-confirmed uncomplicated acute appendicitis and 3) CRP ≤ 65 mg/l. Patients are randomized to receive emergency laparoscopic appendectomy or symptomatic treatment. To ensure patient safety, symptomatically treated patients are hospitalized for at least 24 h receiving standard practice intravenous fluids and analgesics according to standard clinical practice. Primary outcome is 30-day treatment success defined by the absence of any treatment failure criteria. In appendectomy, treatment failure is defined as normal appendiceal histopathology or any postintervention complication requiring general anesthesia. In symptomatic treatment, treatment failure is defined as 1) inability for hospital discharge without appendectomy within 48 h after randomization with a finding of histopathologically inflamed appendix, 2) appendectomy during the initial hospital stay due to clinical progression of appendicitis with complicated acute appendicitis both histopathologically and surgically, 3) appendectomy with a histopathological finding of acute appendicitis after hospital discharge, or 4) any complication of appendicitis requiring general anesthesia. Detailed predefined secondary outcomes will be analyzed. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Study was approved by Ethics Committee of Helsinki University Hospital (ID:HUS/1993/2021), conducted in compliance with the declaration of Helsinki with results disseminated in peer-reviewed scientific journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05289713). STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS OF THIS STUDY
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Puputti
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Janne S Suominen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Topi Luoto
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Pauliina Hiltunen
- Department of Pediatrics, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Liisi Ripatti
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, TYKS Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Susanna Nuutinen
- Department of Children and Adolescents, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | | | - Esko Tahkola
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Saija Hurme
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Paulina Salminen
- Department of Surgery, Turku University Hospital, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Mikko P Pakarinen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland and Karolinska University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Abstract
Appendicitis is one of the most common surgical emergencies in children and adults. Appendectomy as the standard care has been challenged in the recent years with growing evidence about non-operative treatment as a potential primary treatment in patients presenting with signs and symptoms suggestive of acute appendicitis. This review aims to establish where the recent research stands regarding conservative treatment of acute appendicitis, especially in children. There are several studies that report the potential safety and efficacy of treating acute appendicitis non-operatively. Several studies have challenged the concept of acute appendicitis being a progressive disease that always ends in perforation, rather than a disease that can present as different forms with only a defined number of cases progressing to perforation. The lack of randomized controlled studies is a limitation and well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to determine the role of non-operative management of acute appendicitis in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soma Jumah
- Unit of Pediatric Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tomas Wester
- Unit of Pediatric Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden ,Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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25
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Sag S, Elemen L, Masrabaci K, Recber SF, Sonmez Y, Aydin S, Yanar K, Seker E, Yazir Y. Potential therapeutic effects of ethyl pyruvate in an experimental rat appendicitis model. J Pediatr Surg 2022; 57:457-462. [PMID: 34865830 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2021.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pathophysiology of appendicitis is associated with the underlying inflammatory processes. Ethyl pyruvate (EP) has potent antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of EP on the treatment of appendicitis and to examine whether adding EP to the antibiotic treatment could increases the effectiveness of the treatment in a rat appendicitis model. METHOD Thirty two Wistar rats, which had previously created appendicitis, were randomly divided into 4 groups: Group 1 (0.1 ml saline solution), Group 2 (15 mg/kg ceftriaxone), Group 3 (50 mg/kg EP), Group 4 (EP 50 mg/kg + ceftriaxone 15 mg/kg). In all groups, saline solution, ceftriaxone and EP were administered intraperitoneally and the same procedure was repeated twice a day for the following five days. On day 6, the rats underwent relaparotomy and then intraabdominal findings were recorded. Histopathological examination and interleukin 6 (IL 6) level were performed on appendiceal specimens. RESULTS Intra abdominal adhesion score was significantly lower in Group 4 than in Group 1. Total inflammation score was significantly lower in Group 2 than in Group 1 and was significantly lower in Group 4 than in Group 3 and 1. IL 6 level was significantly lower in Group 4 than in Group 3 and 1. CONCLUSION We found that adding EP to the antibiotic therapy increased the efficacy of the treatment in the rat appendicitis model. Further studies are required to apply our findings to the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sefa Sag
- Sancaktepe Sehit Prof.Dr. Ilhan Varank Training and Research Hospital, Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Levent Elemen
- Sancaktepe Sehit Prof.Dr. Ilhan Varank Training and Research Hospital, Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kaan Masrabaci
- Sancaktepe Sehit Prof.Dr. Ilhan Varank Training and Research Hospital, Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Selenay Furat Recber
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Kocaeli University, Izmit, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Yagmur Sonmez
- Sancaktepe Sehit Prof.Dr. Ilhan Varank Training and Research Hospital, Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Seval Aydin
- Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Karolin Yanar
- Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esmanur Seker
- Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yusufhan Yazir
- Stem Cell and Gene Therapies Research and Application Center, Kocaeli University, Izmit, Kocaeli, Turkey
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Bekiaridou K, Kambouri K, Giatromanolaki A, Foutzitzi S, Kouroupi M, Chrysafis I, Deftereos S. The Prognostic Value of Ultrasound Findings in Preoperatively Distinguishing between Uncomplicated and Complicated Types of Pediatric Acute Appendicitis Based on Correlation with Intraoperative and Histopathological Findings. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:2315. [PMID: 36292004 PMCID: PMC9600393 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12102315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 08/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study compares the preoperative ultrasound findings of all children with a clinical picture of acute appendicitis on the basis of intraoperative and histopathological findings to assess the feasibility of this approach in preoperatively distinguishing between uncomplicated and complicated cases. METHODS This retrospective study includes 224 pediatric patients who underwent ultrasound prior to appendectomy at our institution between January 2016 and February 2022. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the association between sonographic and intraoperative histopathological findings. RESULTS Of the 224 participants, 61.1% were intraoperatively diagnosed with uncomplicated appendicitis (59.8% male). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that patients with a higher appendiceal diameter, presence of appendicolith, and peritonitis were more likely to suffer from complicated appendicitis. Finally, the common anatomical position of the appendix and an appendiceal diameter greater than 6 mm had the highest sensitivity (94.6% and 94.5%, respectively) for predicting complicated appendicitis, with the most specific (99.3%) sonographic finding being the existence of an abscess. CONCLUSIONS Preoperative abdominal ultrasound in children with a clinical diagnosis of acute appendicitis can distinguish between uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis in most cases of pediatric appendicitis. A higher appendiceal diameter, the presence of appendicolith, and peritonitis are parameters noted by ultrasound that strongly predict complicated appendicitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantina Bekiaridou
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Katerina Kambouri
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | - Soultana Foutzitzi
- Department of Radiology, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Maria Kouroupi
- Department of Pathology, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Ioannis Chrysafis
- Department of Radiology, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Savas Deftereos
- Department of Radiology, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
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Ayeni A, Mahmood F, Mustafa A, Mcleish B, Kulkarni V, Singhal S, Akingboye A. Predicting the Severity of Acute Appendicitis in Children Using Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR). Cureus 2022; 14:e28619. [PMID: 36185898 PMCID: PMC9523736 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.28619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The ability to predict risk of perforation in acute appendicitis (AA) could direct timely management and reduce morbidity. Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) are surrogate severity markers in infections. This study investigates the use of PLR and NLR as a marker for distinguishing uncomplicated (UA) and complicated appendicitis (CA) in children. Materials and methods This retrospective single-center study collected data between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2020. Children between five and 17 years of age with histologically confirmed appendicitis were included. Cut-off values for NLR and PLR were determined by employing the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve with sensitivity and specificity in addition to regression analysis. Results A total of 701 patients were included with a median age of 13 years. Out of which 52% of the cohort was female. The difference between the NLR and PLR ratios between UA and CA was significant (p=0.05, Kruskal-Wallis). For UA, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) and cut-off for NLR and PLR were 0.741, 3.80 with 95% CI of 0.701-0.781 and 0.660, 149.25 with 95% CI of 0.618-0.703, respectively. In CA, using NLR and PLR, AUC and cut-off were 0.776, 8.86 with 95%CI of 0.730-0.822 and 0.694, 193.67 with 95%CI of 0.634-0.755, respectively. All were significant with p<0.001. Conclusions NLR and PLR are reliable, synergistic markers predicting complicated appendicitis which can guide non-operative management in children.
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Management of pediatric appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic: A nationwide multicenter cohort study. J Pediatr Surg 2022:S0022-3468(22)00512-7. [PMID: 36075771 PMCID: PMC9374489 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2022.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted timely access to care for children, including patients with appendicitis. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on management of appendicitis and patient outcomes. METHODS A multicenter retrospective study was performed including 19 children's hospitals from April 2019-October 2020 of children (age≤18 years) diagnosed with appendicitis. Groups were defined by each hospital's city/state stay-at-home orders (SAHO), designating patients as Pre-COVID (Pre-SAHO) or COVID (Post-SAHO). Demographic, treatment, and outcome data were obtained, and univariate and multivariable analysis was performed. RESULTS Of 6,014 patients, 2,413 (40.1%) presented during the COVID-19 pandemic. More patients were managed non-operatively during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to before the pandemic (147 (6.1%) vs 144 (4.0%), p < 0.001). Despite this change, there was no difference in the proportion of complicated appendicitis between groups (1,247 (34.6%) vs 849 (35.2%), p = 0.12). COVID era non-operative patients received fewer additional procedures, including interventional radiology (IR) drain placements, compared to pre-COVID non-operative patients (29 (19.7%) vs 69 (47.9%), p < 0.001). On adjusted analysis, factors associated with increased odds of receiving non-operative management included: increasing duration of symptoms (OR=1.01, 95% CI: 1.01-1.012), African American race (OR=2.4, 95% CI: 1.3-4.6), and testing positive for COVID-19 (OR=10.8, 95% CI: 5.4-21.6). CONCLUSION Non-operative management of appendicitis increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, fewer COVID era cases required IR procedures. These changes in the management of pediatric appendicitis during the COVID pandemic demonstrates the potential for future utilization of non-operative management.
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Wekell P, Wester T. Familial Mediterranean fever may mimic acute appendicitis in children. Pediatr Surg Int 2022; 38:1099-1104. [PMID: 35737103 PMCID: PMC9259538 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-022-05153-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Acute appendicitis is the most common surgical emergency in children. Diagnosis and management are often straightforward. However, familial Mediterranean fever is an important condition to consider in the assessment of children with acute abdominal pain, particularly in children with an origin in eastern Mediterranean basin where the disease is common. The key feature of familial Mediterranean fever is relapsing episodes of fever and serositis including peritonitis, pleurisy, or arthritis. The disease is treated with colchicine that prevents acute attacks, control subclinical inflammation between the attacks and the long-term complication of amyloidosis. The acute attacks may be a challenge to identify and distinguish from other causes of acute abdomen, including acute appendicitis, but also small bowel obstruction. Ultrasound and CT scan findings are nonspecific during acute attacks of familial Mediterranean fever, but imaging is useful to identify acute appendicitis and small bowel obstruction. The purpose of this article was to increase the awareness and knowledge of familial Mediterranean fever and provide support for the paediatric surgeon in the clinical care of these children in parts of the world where familial Mediterranean fever is rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per Wekell
- grid.459843.70000 0004 0624 0259Department of Pediatrics, NU-Hospital Group, Uddevalla, Sweden ,grid.8761.80000 0000 9919 9582Department of Pediatrics, Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Tomas Wester
- grid.24381.3c0000 0000 9241 5705Department of Pediatric Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden ,grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Hegde BN, Slater BJ. Long-Term Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Management of Pediatric Appendicitis. Pediatr Ann 2022; 51:e266-e269. [PMID: 35858217 DOI: 10.3928/19382359-20220504-03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Appendicitis remains a common disease entity in pediatric patients that has historically been treated surgically with appendectomy as the standard of care. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic introduced widespread challenges impacting the management and treatment of various disease processes, including pediatric appendicitis. Many studies demonstrated a decreased incidence in pediatric appendicitis cases, which may be attributable to fears of contracting the COVID-19 virus and restrictions imposed with stay-at-home orders. Many studies have noted both an increase in nonoperative management of pediatric appendicitis and a rise in patients presenting with complicated appendicitis. Additionally, the development of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children that may present with symptoms mimicking appendicitis has created a diagnostic dilemma for pediatric care providers. Understanding the natural history of pediatric appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic and additional diagnostic and treatment difficulties are essential to ensure accurate care of pediatric patients that present with abdominal pain concerning for appendicitis. [Pediatr Ann. 2022;51(7):e266-e269.].
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Uzunlu O, Genisol I. New Criteria Could Improve the Success Rate of Non-operative Management of Acute Appendicitis in Children. Cureus 2022; 14:e25857. [PMID: 35832764 PMCID: PMC9273170 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.25857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Most studies addressing non-operative management for acute appendicitis have focused on adults, and there are limited data available for children. We aimed to evaluate the results of successful non-operative management in children with acute uncomplicated appendicitis with our “additional criteria” and find which factors could be affecting the success rate and which cases could be candidates for non-operative management. Materials and methods: A total of 54 patients who were diagnosed with acute uncomplicated appendicitis and received non-operative management were re-evaluated retrospectively. Defining uncomplicated appendicitis was based on the duration of symptoms (<24 hours), clinical history, and radiologic findings. The radiologic evaluation was based on ultrasonography and computed tomography. The patients received an intravenous antibiotic combination (sulbactam/ampicillin, gentamicin, clindamycin) for five days at the hospital; the treatment was completed after 10 days with an oral antibiotic combination (amoxicillin/clavulanate, metronidazole). The cases have a follow-up period of up to two years. Results: The mean patient age and follow-up time were 13.0 ± 4 years and 41.6 ± 13 months, respectively. The mean leukocyte count, C-reactive protein (CRP), and appendix diameter values were 15.48 ± 6.4 × 109/L, 11.79 ± 24.5 mg/dL, and 7.76 ± 1.4 mm on admission, and 6.86 ± 12.4 × 109/L, 4.17 ± 10.3 mg/dL, and 5.82 ± 1.6 mm on the second day, respectively. This decrease in WBC/CRP values and appendix diameter was statistically significant (p < 0.001). None of the patients had an early failure, complication, or adverse event. Recurrent appendicitis occurred in only five cases (9%) that were treated by laparoscopic appendectomy during the follow-up. Conclusion: Non-operative management for acute uncomplicated appendicitis in children regarding long-term outcomes with our criteria was satisfactory and initial success rates were excellent.
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Utility of Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) as a Noninvasive Biomarker for the Diagnosis of Acute Appendicitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 5222 Cases. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12041011. [PMID: 35454059 PMCID: PMC9032964 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12041011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite great advances in medicine, numerous available laboratory markers, and radiological imaging, the diagnosis of acute appendicitis (AA) in some cases still remains controversial and challenging for clinicians. Because of that, clinicians are still looking for an ideal marker that would be specific to AA. The red blood cell distribution width (RDW) has been recently investigated in several studies as a potential biomarker for AA. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to systematically summarize and compare all relevant data on RDW as a diagnostic biomarker for AA. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis were performed as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Excerpta Medica database—EMBASE) were systematically searched for relevant comparative studies by two independent researches using keywords ((red cell distribution width) OR rdw) AND (appendicitis). An independent assessment of the methodological quality was performed by two authors using the Downs and Black scale. RevMan 5.4 software was used to perform the meta-analysis. Results: Fifteen studies were included in the final meta-analysis; the majority of the studies was retrospective. Nine studies compared the RDW values between AA and non-AA; four studies compared the same between AA and healthy controls, while two studies compared the RDW values among all three groups. The estimated heterogeneity among the studies for all outcome was statistically significant (I2 = 92−99%, p < 0.00001). The pooling the data demonstrated no statistically significant difference in the RDW values (weighted mean difference (WMD) = 0.03, 95% CI = (−0.46, 0.52), p = 0.91) between AA and healthy controls as well as between AA and non-AA cases (WMD = 0.23, 95%CI = (−0.19, 0.65), p = 0.28). A separate subanalysis was performed to evaluate the utility of this biomarker for the pediatric age group. Pooling the data demonstrated no significant difference among the AA and non-AA groups in terms of the RDW values (WMD = 0.99, 95% CI = (−0.35, 2.33), p = 0.15). Conclusion: The RDW value difference demonstrated no statistically significant difference in AA versus healthy individuals and AA versus non-AA individuals. At the moment, there is no evidence of RDW utility in diagnostic testing of AA. Further research with prospective, multicenter studies and studies targeting special patient groups with a large sample size are needed in this field.
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A Dual-Institutional Study on First Year Practice Outcomes of Pediatric Surgeons Who Trained in the Era of Work Hour Restrictions. Pediatr Surg Int 2022; 38:277-283. [PMID: 34709434 PMCID: PMC8742777 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-021-05037-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In July 2003, an 80-h work week restriction for residencies was mandated. This was met with skepticism regarding its potential impact on operative training. We hypothesized no difference in outcomes for pediatric surgeons who trained under duty hour restrictions compared to historical complication rates. METHODS Dual-institutional review of pediatric patients who underwent five of the most common operations (2013-2018) by first-year pediatric surgeons who trained under duty hour restrictions was performed. Tests of proportions were used to compare complication rates to published rates on data collected prior to 2003. RESULTS Patient mean age was 10.1 years. No significant differences (p values > 0.05) were found in laparoscopic appendectomy rates of infection, bleeding or intra-abdominal abscess compared to previously published rates. Pyloromyotomy rates of infection or duodenal perforation were not different. No differences were detected in rates of infection, recurrence or testicular atrophy for inguinal hernia repair. Umbilical hernia rates of infection, bleeding, and recurrence were also not different. There was no difference in CVC rates of hemopneumothoraces; significantly more bleeding events were detected (1.2% vs. 0.1%; p value = 0.04). CONCLUSION In this study, first-year complication rates of pediatric surgeons who trained under duty hour restrictions were not significantly different when compared to published rates.
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Emile SH, Sakr A, Shalaby M, Elfeki H. Efficacy and Safety of Non-Operative Management of Uncomplicated Acute Appendicitis Compared to Appendectomy: An Umbrella Review of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. World J Surg 2022; 46:1022-1038. [PMID: 35024922 PMCID: PMC8756749 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-022-06446-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-operative management (NOM) of uncomplicated acute appendicitis (AA) has been introduced as an alternative to appendectomy. This umbrella review aimed to provide an overview of the efficacy and safety of NOM of uncomplicated AA in the published systematic reviews. METHODS This umbrella review has been reported in line with the PRISMA guidelines and umbrella review approach. Systematic reviews with and without meta-analyses on the efficacy of NOM of AA were analyzed. The quality of the reviews was assessed with the AMSTAR 2 tool. The main outcomes measures were the treatment failure and complication rates of NOM and hospital stay as compared to appendectomy. RESULTS Eighteen systematic reviews were included to this umbrella review. Eight reviews documented higher odds of failure with NOM, whereas two reviews revealed similar odds of failure. Six reviews reported lower odds of complications with NOM, six reported similar odds, and one reported lower odds of complications with surgery. Eight reviews reported similar hospital stay between NOM and appendectomy, one reported longer stay with NOM and another reported shorter stay with NOM. Pooled analyses showed that NOM was associated with higher treatment failure overall, in children-only, adults only, and RCTs-only meta-analyses. NOM was associated with lower complications overall, yet children-only and RCTs-only analyses revealed similar complications to surgery. NOM was associated with shorter stay in the overall and adult-only analysis, but not in the children-only analysis. CONCLUSIONS NOM of AA is associated with higher treatment failure, marginally lower rate of complications and shorter stay than appendectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh Hany Emile
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, General Surgery Department, Mansoura University Hospitals, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ahmad Sakr
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, General Surgery Department, Mansoura University Hospitals, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mostafa Shalaby
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, General Surgery Department, Mansoura University Hospitals, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Hossam Elfeki
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, General Surgery Department, Mansoura University Hospitals, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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Tzortzopoulou AK, Tsolia M, Spyridis N, Giamarelou P, Sfakiotaki R, Passalides A, Zavras N. A New Score for the Diagnosis of Complicated Appendicitis in Children - Complicated Appendicitis Pediatric Score. J Indian Assoc Pediatr Surg 2022; 27:410-418. [PMID: 36238344 PMCID: PMC9552662 DOI: 10.4103/jiaps.jiaps_110_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim This study aims to construct and validate a new score for diagnosis of complicated appendicitis in children, complicated appendicitis pediatric score (CoAPS), to guide residents' clinical decision-making on choosing the correct patients for immediate surgery, reducing the emergency negative surgeries. Methods This prospective observational study enrolled two cohorts of patients 5-15 years old. Four hundred and seven consecutive patients were enrolled for the derivation cohort. Demographic data, clinical features, and histopathology data were collected. The outcome measure was the histological diagnosis of gangrenous appendicitis with or without perforation. The score was next validated in a separate cohort of 312 consecutive patients who were classified according to their risk of complicated appendicitis. The diagnostic performance of the score and the potential for the risk stratification to select patients for diagnostic imaging, emergency operative management, and reduce emergency negative operation rates were quantified. Results A positive "jumping up" test, vomiting, white blood cell >13.5 × 10^3/ml, lymphocytes <18%, and C-reactive protein >50 mg/dl were independent predictors for complicated appendicitis. The final prediction model exhibited an area under the curve of 0.890 (95% confidence interval: 0.859-0.922). The low-risk group demonstrated high sensitivity (90.4%) for complicated appendicitis, while scores 6 or more were very specific (95%) for the disorder. Describing the potential utility of the score, emergency ultrasound imaging would have been postponed in 14.5% of patients (P = 0.0016), and emergency negative explorations would have been cut by 87%. Conclusion The CoAPS score could guide residents in emergency management of children with complicated appendicitis reducing hospitalizations and urgent surgeries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelais K. Tzortzopoulou
- 2nd Department of Pediatric Surgery, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Childrens’ Hospital, Athens, Greece,Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Mariza Tsolia
- Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nicolaos Spyridis
- Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece,Address for correspondence: Dr. Nicolaos Zavras, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, 11527 Athens, Greece. E-mail:
| | | | - Rodanthi Sfakiotaki
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital “P. & A. Kyriakou”, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexander Passalides
- 2nd Department of Pediatric Surgery, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Childrens’ Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Hannan MJ, Parveen MK, Hoque MM, Chowdhury TK, Hasan MS, Nandy A. Management of Acute Appendicitis in Children During COVID-19 and Perspectives of Pediatric Surgeons From South Asia: Survey Study. JMIR Perioper Med 2021; 4:e26613. [PMID: 34818209 PMCID: PMC8691415 DOI: 10.2196/26613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonoperative treatment (NOT) of pediatric appendicitis as opposed to surgery elicits great debate and is potentially influenced by physician preferences. Owing to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on health care, the practice of NOT has generally increased by necessity and may, in a post-COVID-19 world, change surgeons' perceptions of NOT. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine whether the use of NOT has increased in South Asia and whether these levels of practice would be sustained after the pandemic subsides. METHODS A survey was conducted among pediatric surgeons regarding their position, institute, and country; the number of appendicitis cases they managed; and their mode of treatment between identical time periods in 2019 and 2020 (April 1 to August 31). The survey also directly posed the question as to whether they would continue with the COVID-19-imposed level of NOT after the effect of the pandemic diminishes. RESULTS A total of 134 responses were collected out of 200 (67.0%). A significant increase in the practice of NOT was observed for the entire cohort, although no effect was observed when grouped by country or institute. When grouped by position, senior physicians increased the practice of NOT the most, while junior physicians reported the least change. The data suggest that only professors would be inclined to maintain the COVID-19-level of NOT practice after the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Increased practice of NOT during the COVID-19 pandemic was observed in South Asia, particularly by senior surgeons. Only professors appeared inclined to consider maintaining this increased level of practice in the post-COVID-19 world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Jafrul Hannan
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, South Point Hospital, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | | | - Md Mozammel Hoque
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Chattagram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | | | - Md Samiul Hasan
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dhaka Shishu Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Alak Nandy
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chattgram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh
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Antić J, Jokić R, Bukarica S, Lukić I, Dobrijević D, Rakić G, Pajić M, Trajković V, Milenković M. Predictive Value of Red Blood Cell Distribution Width, Mean Platelet Volume and Platelet Distribution Width in Children with Acute Appendicitis. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 8:children8111041. [PMID: 34828754 PMCID: PMC8619955 DOI: 10.3390/children8111041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Acute appendicitis in pediatric patients is one of the most common surgical emergencies, but the early diagnosis still remains challenging. The aim of this study was to determine the predictive value of Red blood cell distribution width (RDW), Mean platelet volume (MPV) and Platelet distribution width (PDW) in children with acute appendicitis. Materials and Methods: This study was a retrospective assessment of laboratory findings (RDW, MPV, PDW) of patients who underwent surgical treatment for acute appendicitis from January 2019 to December 2020. Result: During this period, 223 appendectomies were performed at our Institute. In 107 (43%) cases appendicitis was uncomplicated, while in 116 (46.6%) it was complicated. WBC and RDW/MPV ratio were significant parameters for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis with cut-off values of 12.86 (susceptibility: 66.3%; specificity: 73.2%) and 1.64 (susceptibility: 59.8%; specificity: 71.9%), respectively. WBC and RDW/RBC ratio were independent variables for the diagnosis of complicated appendicitis. The cut-off values were 15.05 for WBC (sensitivity: 60.5%; specificity: 70.7%) and 2.5 for RDW/RBC ratio (sensitivity: 72%; specificity: 52.8%). Conclusions: WBC is an important predictor of appendicitis and complicated appendicitis. RDW, MPV and PDW alone have no diagnostic value in pediatric acute appendicitis or predicting the degree of appendix inflammation. However, the RDW/MPV ratio can be an important predictor of appendix inflammation, with higher values in patients with more severe appendix inflammation. RDW/RBC ratio may be an important predictor of complicated appendicitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Antić
- Institute for Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (R.J.); (S.B.); (I.L.); (D.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (V.T.); (M.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +381-64-129-78-52
| | - Radoica Jokić
- Institute for Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (R.J.); (S.B.); (I.L.); (D.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (V.T.); (M.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Svetlana Bukarica
- Institute for Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (R.J.); (S.B.); (I.L.); (D.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (V.T.); (M.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Ivana Lukić
- Institute for Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (R.J.); (S.B.); (I.L.); (D.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (V.T.); (M.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Dejan Dobrijević
- Institute for Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (R.J.); (S.B.); (I.L.); (D.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (V.T.); (M.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Goran Rakić
- Institute for Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (R.J.); (S.B.); (I.L.); (D.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (V.T.); (M.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Miloš Pajić
- Institute for Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (R.J.); (S.B.); (I.L.); (D.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (V.T.); (M.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Veličko Trajković
- Institute for Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (R.J.); (S.B.); (I.L.); (D.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (V.T.); (M.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Marina Milenković
- Institute for Child and Youth Health Care of Vojvodina, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (R.J.); (S.B.); (I.L.); (D.D.); (G.R.); (M.P.); (V.T.); (M.M.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
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Mosuka EM, Thilakarathne KN, Mansuri NM, Mann NK, Rizwan S, Mohamed AE, Elshafey AE, Khadka A, Mohammed L. A Systematic Review Comparing Nonoperative Management to Appendectomy for Uncomplicated Appendicitis in Children. Cureus 2021; 13:e18901. [PMID: 34692267 PMCID: PMC8528224 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.18901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
More than a century after its introduction, appendectomy has remained the gold standard treatment for acute appendicitis. In adults with acute uncomplicated appendicitis, nonoperative management (NOM) has been shown to be a viable treatment option. To date, there has been relatively limited data on the nonoperative management of acute appendicitis in the pediatric population. The primary objective of this study was to systematically review the available literature in the pediatric population and compare the efficacy and recurrence between initial nonoperative treatment strategy and appendectomy in children with uncomplicated appendicitis. In July 2021, we conducted systematic searches of the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. We only included full-text comparative original studies published within the last decade, and we excluded articles that solely examined NOM without comparing it to appendectomy. Two writers worked independently on the data collection and analysis. It was found that NOM had a high initial success rate and a low rate of recurrent appendicitis. After months of follow-up, the vast majority of patients with uncomplicated acute appendicitis who received initial nonoperative treatment did not require surgical intervention. Furthermore, the rate of complication was comparable in both treatment groups, and NOM did not appear to be associated with an increased risk of complications. The most significant drawback stemmed from the fact that the included articles in this study had a wide range of study designs and inclusion criteria. According to current evidence, NOM is feasible and cost-effective. Antibiotic therapy can be given safely in a small subset of individuals with uncomplicated appendicitis. To optimize outcomes, physicians should evaluate the clinical presentation and the patient's desire when selecting those to be managed nonoperatively. Again, more research, preferably large randomized trials, is required to compare the long-term clinical efficacy of NOM with appendicectomy. Finally, additional research is required to establish the characteristics of patients who are the best candidates for nonoperative treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Mudika Mosuka
- Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, CMR.,Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA.,Medical Documentation, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, USA
| | | | - Naushad M Mansuri
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Neelam K Mann
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Shariqa Rizwan
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Afrah E Mohamed
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Ahmed E Elshafey
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Akanchha Khadka
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA.,Medicine, Nepal Medical College, Kathmandu, NPL
| | - Lubna Mohammed
- Research, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, USA
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Ultrasonographic features can predict outcome of conservative management of acute appendicitis in children. Emerg Radiol 2021; 29:59-65. [PMID: 34533666 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-021-01984-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether specific ultrasonographic features can predict failure of conservative treatment of acute appendicitis. METHODS A 2-year retrospective study was conducted on children admitted with acute appendicitis. Those with uncomplicated appendicitis diagnosed solely by ultrasound, and treated conservatively, were followed 18-24 m to assess treatment outcome. Management was considered successful if recurrent acute appendicitis was not observed during follow-up. Appendix diameter, wall thickness, presence of mucosal ulceration, hyperechogenic fat, free fluid, and lymph nodes were evaluated as potential discriminatory ultrasonographic predictors. T-tests, chi-square, sensitivity, specificity, and odds ratios were calculated. RESULTS Out of 556 consecutive patients that were admitted with acute appendicitis, 180 (32%) managed conservatively. One hundred eleven (62%) imaged by US only. Ninety-two out of 111 (83%) were followed 18-24 m to assess treatment outcome, and 19/111 (17%) were lost to follow-up. Conservative management was successful in 72/92 (78.2%), with treatment failure in 20/92 (21.8%) (5/92 (5.4%) with recurrent acute appendicitis and 15/92 (16.3%) underwent appendectomy). Of the ultrasonographic features studied, mucosal ulceration demonstrated statistically significant predictive value. Fifteen out of 20 (75%) treatment failures had mucosal ulceration, compared to 21/72 (29.2%) of the patients with successful treatment (p < 0.001). This yielded a positive odds ratio of 7.3 (2.3-22.6, 95% CI), 70.8% (58.9-80.9, 95% CI) specificity, and 75% (50.9-91.3, 95% CI) sensitivity. Positive predictive value was 41.6% (31.5-52.5, 95% CI) while intact mucosa had negative predictive value of 91% (82.4-95.6, 95% CI) for conservative management success. CONCLUSION The presence or absence of appendiceal mucosal ulceration at ultrasound can predict conservative management outcome in the setting of acute appendicitis, potentially improving pediatric patient selection for conservative management.
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Sajjad MN, Naumeri F, Hina S. Non-operative treatment versus appendectomy for acute uncomplicated appendicitis: A randomized controlled trial. Pak J Med Sci 2021; 37:1276-1281. [PMID: 34475898 PMCID: PMC8377919 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.37.5.4016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To compare the outcome of non-operative treatment (NOT) with antibiotics versus surgical management of uncomplicated appendicitis in children. Methods: This randomized clinical trial (NCT 04030741) was carried out in Pediatric Surgery Department, Mayo Hospital from September 2018 to September 2019. Total sample size was 180, and after informed consent patients were randomly allocated in two groups. All children between 5 and 15 years of age and having pediatric appendicitis score (PAS) >7 were included. Patients with previous abdominal surgery, peritonitis, appendicular mass, or intra-abdominal abscess were excluded. Children in NOT group (Group A) were given intravenous Meropenem and Metronidazole for 48 hours and after starting oral, antibiotics were continued orally for 7 days. In Group B, children underwent appendectomy. Failure of NOT was labeled if there was abscess formation or peri-appendiceal fluid collection on ultrasound, development of peritonitis or recurrence of appendicitis. Results: In Group A, mean age was 9.56±1.8 years and in Group B 10.11±1.8 years. There were 123 male and 57 female patients. Group B had 100% successful outcome. NOT (Group A) had successful outcome in 75 patients (83.3%) and failure was noted in 15 (16.7%). Five needed operation within 48 hours, all had appendicolith, and 10 patients presented within 6 months. Raised total leukocyte count (p value < 0.0001) and C reactive protein (p value < 0.04) levels were noted with failure of NOT. Conclusions: In this study, success of NOT was 84% so a trial of NOT in cases of uncomplicated appendicitis should be considered in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Nadeem Sajjad
- Dr. Muhammad Nadeem Sajjad, MBBS. Department of Pediatric Surgery, King Edward Medical University/Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Fatima Naumeri
- Dr. Fatima Naumeri, MCPS, FCPS. Department of Pediatric Surgery, King Edward Medical University/Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sehrish Hina
- Dr. Sehrish Hina, MBBS. Department of East Surgery, King Edward Medical University/Mayo Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
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Li J. Revisiting delayed appendectomy in patients with acute appendicitis. World J Clin Cases 2021; 9:5372-5390. [PMID: 34307591 PMCID: PMC8281431 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i20.5372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute appendicitis (AA) is the most common acute abdomen, and appendectomy is the most common nonelective surgery performed worldwide. Despite the long history of understanding this disease and enhancements to medical care, many challenges remain in the diagnosis and treatment of AA. One of these challenges is the timing of appendectomy. In recent decades, extensive studies focused on this topic have been conducted, but there have been no conclusive answers. From the onset of symptoms to appendectomy, many factors can cause delay in the surgical intervention. Some are inevitable, and some can be modified and improved. The favorable and unfavorable results of these factors vary according to different situations. The purpose of this review is to discuss the causes of appendectomy delay and its risk-related costs. This review also explores strategies to balance the positive and negative effects of delayed appendectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Hospital of Mianyang, Sichuan Mental Health Center, Mianyang 621000, Sichuan Province, China
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine He
- Department of General Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street CA-034, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Shawn J Rangel
- Department of Pediatric & Thoracic Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue - Fegan 3, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Kohga A, Kawabe A, Yajima K, Okumura T, Yamashita K, Isogaki J, Suzuki K, Muramatsu K. Does the presence of an appendicolith or abscess predict failure of nonoperative management of patients with acute appendicitis? Emerg Radiol 2021; 28:977-983. [PMID: 34173083 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-021-01951-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Nonoperative management (NOM) has been widely accepted as one of the standard treatments for patients with acute appendicitis. However, predictive factors for the failure of NOM have not been thoroughly investigated. METHODS A total of 196 patients with acute appendicitis underwent NOM between April 2014 and December 2020. Of these 196 patients, 24 patients failed NOM and required emergency surgery (failure group: n = 24), while the other 172 patients were successfully treated with NOM (success group: n = 172). These two groups were compared, and the predictive factors for the failure of NOM were investigated. RESULTS The number of patients who had a previous history of stroke was significantly increased in the failure group (12.5% vs. 2.9%, p = 0.026). Incarceration of an appendicolith on CT images was significantly associated with the failure group (20.8% vs. 1.7%, p < 0.001), while neither the presence of an appendicolith nor abscess was associated. The presence of periappendiceal fluid was significantly associated with the failure group (50.0% vs. 26.7%, p = 0.019). The incarceration of an appendicolith (p < 0.001, odds ratio = 19.85) and periappendiceal fluid (p = 0.009, odds ratio = 3.62) were found to be independent risk factors for failure of NOM. Neither the presence of an appendicolith nor abscess was associated with the recurrence of appendicitis. CONCLUSIONS The presence of an appendicolith or abscess was not a crucial factor for surgery. Incarceration of an appendicolith and periappendiceal fluid on CT images was predictive factors for the failure of NOM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Kohga
- Division of Surgery, Fujinomiya City General Hospital, 3-1, Nishiki-cho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, 4180076, Japan.
| | - Akihiro Kawabe
- Division of Surgery, Fujinomiya City General Hospital, 3-1, Nishiki-cho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, 4180076, Japan
| | - Kiyoshige Yajima
- Division of Surgery, Fujinomiya City General Hospital, 3-1, Nishiki-cho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, 4180076, Japan
| | - Takuya Okumura
- Division of Surgery, Fujinomiya City General Hospital, 3-1, Nishiki-cho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, 4180076, Japan
| | - Kimihiro Yamashita
- Division of Surgery, Fujinomiya City General Hospital, 3-1, Nishiki-cho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, 4180076, Japan
| | - Jun Isogaki
- Division of Surgery, Fujinomiya City General Hospital, 3-1, Nishiki-cho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, 4180076, Japan
| | - Kenji Suzuki
- Division of Surgery, Fujinomiya City General Hospital, 3-1, Nishiki-cho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, 4180076, Japan
| | - Katsuaki Muramatsu
- Division of Radiology, Fujinomiya City General Hospital, 3-1, Nishiki-cho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, 4180076, Japan
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Reismann J, Kiss N, Reismann M. The application of artificial intelligence methods to gene expression data for differentiation of uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis in children and adolescents - a proof of concept study. BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:268. [PMID: 34103023 PMCID: PMC8186230 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-02735-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Genome wide gene expression analysis has revealed hints for independent immunological pathways underlying the pathophysiologies of phlegmonous (PA) and gangrenous appendicitis (GA). Methods of artificial intelligence (AI) have successfully been applied to routine laboratory and sonographic parameters for differentiation of the inflammatory manifestations. In this study we aimed to apply AI methods to gene expression data to provide evidence for feasibility. Methods Modern algorithms from AI were applied to 56.666 gene expression data sets from 13 patients with PA and 16 with GA aged 7–17 years by using resampling methods (bootstrap). Performance with respect to sensitivities and specificities where investigated with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Results Within the experimental setting a best performing discriminatory biomarker signature consisting of a set of 4 genes could be defined: ERGIC and golgi 3, regulator of G-protein signaling 2, Rho GTPase activating protein 33, and Golgi Reassembly Stacking Protein 2. ROC analysis showed a mean area under the curve of 84%. Conclusions Gene expression based application of AI methods is feasible and represents a promising approach for future discriminatory diagnostics in children with acute appendicitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Reismann
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Natalie Kiss
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marc Reismann
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
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Kvasnovsky CL, Shi Y, Rich BS, Glick RD, Soffer SZ, Lipskar AM, Dolgin S, Bagrodia N, Hong A, Prince JM, James DE, Sathya C. Limiting hospital resources for acute appendicitis in children: Lessons learned from the U.S. epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic. J Pediatr Surg 2021; 56:900-904. [PMID: 32620267 PMCID: PMC7309720 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2020.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the suspension of nonemergent surgeries throughout New York. Our tertiary care children's hospital pivoted towards a brief trial of intravenous (IV) antibiotic therapy in all patients in order to limit operating room (OR) utilization and avoid prolonged hospital stays. We describe our pandemic-based strategy for non-operative management (NOM) of appendicitis but with a limited duration of IV antibiotics. METHODS We performed a retrospective study of children treated for acute appendicitis at our center from 3/31/2020 to 5/3/2020 during the peak of the New York pandemic. We compared appendicitis volume to similar months in prior years. We evaluated failure of NOM, length of stay, and compared characteristics of children we successfully treated with our expanded NOM protocol to previously published inclusion criteria for NOM. RESULTS 45.5% of children (25/55) with acute appendicitis underwent NOM. Of the 30 who underwent surgery, 13 had complicated appendicitis while 17 had simple appendicitis. Three patients were COVID-positive, although none had respiratory symptoms. The majority of patients presenting with acute appendicitis (78.2%) did not meet previously published criteria for NOM. CONCLUSIONS We treated a similar volume of children with acute appendicitis during the pandemic compared to prior years. We applied non-operative management to nearly half our patients, even as we expanded inclusion criteria for NOM to reduce OR utilization, but limited the duration of the antibiotic trial to avoid prolonged hospital stays. TYPE OF STUDY Retrospective study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte L Kvasnovsky
- Cohen Children's Medical Center, Division of Pediatric Surgery, New Hyde Park, NY; Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY.
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A surge in appendicitis: Management of paediatric appendicitis during the COVID-19 surge in the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. THE ULSTER MEDICAL JOURNAL 2021; 90:86-89. [PMID: 34276086 PMCID: PMC8278940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditional surgical dogma is that paediatric appendicitis necessitates an appendicectomy; however there is an increasing cohort of evidence suggesting that non-operative management (NOM) using antibiotic therapy is safe and effective. During the COVID-19 surge (April - June 2020) with centralization of paediatric surgical care and risks from anaesthetics to both patients and staff a NOM pathway was used to manage clinically diagnosed appendicitis in the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children (RBHSC). METHODS Prospective data collection was undertaken of all children (<16 years) diagnosed with appendicitis who entered the NOM pathway in RBHSC from 01/04/2020 to 30/06/2020. This was compared to a cohort from the same timeframe in 2019. Primary end-points were inpatient success rate of NOM and 30-day success rate of NOM (success defined as no appendectomy performed). RESULTS 47 patients completed the NOM pathway, with 43% (20/47) suspected to have complicated appendicitis. The cohort was similar to that of 2019 in terms of age (p=0.1) and sex (p=0.8), but was 155% larger (42 v. 20).For those with simple appendicitis, there was a 96% (26/27) success rate of NOM on discharge, with a 93% (25/27) 30-day success rate. For complicated appendicitis, there was a 40% (8/20) success rate on discharge, with a 30% (6/20) 30-day success rate. CONCLUSION The use of a NOM pathway for paediatric appendicitis during the COVID-19 surge in Northern Ireland was safe and effective for staff and patients. With a small sample size and restricted follow up more evidence is required to prove if this is an effective treatment modality with a return to normal theatre availability. In the interests of antibiotic stewardship we would not advocate NOM pathways utilisation by non-surgical clinicians.
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Téoule P, Laffolie JD, Rolle U, Reissfelder C. Acute Appendicitis in Childhood and Adulthood. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 117:764-774. [PMID: 33533331 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2020.0764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute appendicitis is the most common cause of the acute abdomen, with an incidence of 1 per 1000 persons per year. It is one of the main differential diagnoses of unclear abdominal conditions. METHODS This review is based on pertinent publications that were retrieved by a selective search in the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases. RESULTS In addition to the medical history, physical examination and laboratory tests, abdominal ultrasonography should be performed to establish the diagnosis (and sometimes computed tomography [CT] or magnetic resonance imaging [MRI], if ultrasonography is insufficient). Before any treatment is provided, appendicitis is classified as either uncomplicated or complicated. In both types of appendicitis, the decision to treat surgically or conservatively must be based on the overall clinical picture and the patient's risk factors. Appendectomy is the treatment of choice for acute appendicitis in all age groups. In Germany, appendectomy is mainly performed laparoscopically in patients with low morbidity. Uncomplicated appendicitis can, alternatively, be treated conservatively under certain circumstances. A meta-analysis of five randomized, controlled trials has revealed that ca. 37% of adult patients treated conservatively undergo appendectomy within one year. Complicated appendicitis is a serious disease; it can also potentially be treated conservatively (with antibiotics, with or without placement of a drain) as an alternative to surgical treatment. CONCLUSION Conservative treatment is being performed more frequently, but the current state of the evidence does not justify a change of the standard therapy from surgery to conservative treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Téoule
- Department of Surgery, Universitäts -medizin Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg UniversityDepartment of General Pediatrics and Neonatology, Pediatric Gastroenterology, University of Giessen, GermanyDepartment of Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt, Germany
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Hall NJ, Eaton S, Sherratt FC, Reading I, Walker E, Chorozoglou M, Beasant L, Wood W, Stanton M, Corbett H, Rex D, Hutchings N, Dixon E, Grist S, Crawley EM, Young B, Blazeby JM. CONservative TReatment of Appendicitis in Children: a randomised controlled feasibility Trial (CONTRACT). Arch Dis Child 2021; 106:archdischild-2020-320746. [PMID: 33441315 PMCID: PMC8311091 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2020-320746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish the feasibility of a multicentre randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a non-operative treatment pathway compared with appendicectomy in children with uncomplicated acute appendicitis. DESIGN Feasibility randomised controlled trial with embedded qualitative study to inform recruiter training to optimise recruitment and the design of a future definitive trial. SETTING Three specialist paediatric surgery centres in the UK. PATIENTS Children (aged 4-15 years) with a clinical diagnosis of uncomplicated acute appendicitis. INTERVENTIONS Appendicectomy or a non-operative treatment pathway (comprising broad-spectrum antibiotics and active observation). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcome measure was the proportion of eligible patients recruited. Secondary outcomes evaluated adherence to interventions, data collection during follow-up, safety of treatment pathways and clinical course. RESULTS Fifty per cent of eligible participants (95% CI 40 to 59) approached about the trial agreed to participate and were randomised. Repeated bespoke recruiter training was associated with an increase in recruitment rate over the course of the trial from 38% to 72%. There was high acceptance of randomisation, good patient and surgeon adherence to trial procedures and satisfactory completion of follow-up. Although more participants had perforated appendicitis than had been anticipated, treatment pathways were found to be safe and adverse event profiles acceptable. CONCLUSION Recruitment to a randomised controlled trial examining the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a non-operative treatment pathway compared with appendicectomy for the treatment of uncomplicated acute appendicitis in children is feasible. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN15830435.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel J Hall
- University Surgery Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Southampton Children's Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Simon Eaton
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Frances C Sherratt
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Isabel Reading
- Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Erin Walker
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Maria Chorozoglou
- Southampton Health Technology Assessment Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Lucy Beasant
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Wendy Wood
- National Institute of Health Research (NIHR), Research Design Service South Central, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Michael Stanton
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Southampton Children's Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Harriet Corbett
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Alder Hey Children's NHS foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Dean Rex
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Natalie Hutchings
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Elizabeth Dixon
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Simon Grist
- Patient and Public Involvement Representative, Southampton, UK
| | - Esther M Crawley
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Bridget Young
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Jane M Blazeby
- Centre for Surgical Research and NIHR Bristol Biomedical Research Centre, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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49
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Heise JW, Kentrup H, Dietrich CG, Cosler A, Hübner D, Krumholz W. Laparoscopic Appendectomy: A Safe and Definitive Solution for Suspected Appendicitis. Visc Med 2020; 37:180-188. [PMID: 34250075 DOI: 10.1159/000510487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Since conservative antibiotic treatment in uncomplicated appendicitis might not solve the clinical problem definitively, it has to compete with the results of today's laparoscopic appendectomy. Methods In a county hospital, accommodating also a pediatric department, all cases of appendectomy for suspected appendicitis over 15 years were analyzed retrospectively for the following items: beginning of symptoms, time from admission to surgery, surgical technique as "open," "laparoscopic" or "converted," if perforated at operation and histological confirmation of acute inflammation. Surgical morbidity was detected in distinct categories. To evaluate changes over time, 3 time periods of 5 years each were defined. Results Resulting in a total of 1,956 cases there were 731 in group I, 633 in group II and 592 in group III within the 3 time periods, respectively. The median age was 17 years. The percentage of perforations was 16.8%. Those patients had - with 47 compared to 27 h - a significantly prolonged time from the beginning of symptoms to admission (p = 0.0001). The proportion of laparoscopic surgery rose from 83.3 (group I) to 98.3% (group III; p = 0.0001). The median postoperative hospital stay diminished from 4 to 3 days in nonperforated (p = 0.0001) and from 8 to 7 days in perforated cases (p = 0.0009). Surgical morbidity was reduced from 4.1% in the first to 1.7% in the third observation period (p = 0.0144). There were no surgical site infections during the last 5 years. Conclusions Timely laparoscopic appendectomy in case of suspected appendicitis can be offered with an extraordinary low morbidity. Taking into account the complete solution of the otherwise pending threat, compared to conservative antibiotic treatment, it is safe and definitive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Wilfried Heise
- Department of General, Visceral and Thyroid Surgery, Bethlehem Gesundheitszentrum Stolberg (Rhld.), Stolberg, Germany
| | - Heiner Kentrup
- Department of Pediatrics, Bethlehem Gesundheitszentrum Stolberg (Rhld.), Stolberg, Germany
| | | | - Ansgar Cosler
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bethlehem Gesundheitszentrum Stolberg (Rhld.), Stolberg, Germany
| | - Dolores Hübner
- Department of Radiology and Pediatric Radiology, Bethlehem Gesundheitszentrum Stolberg (Rhld.), Stolberg, Germany
| | - Werner Krumholz
- Department of Anesthesiology, Bethlehem Gesundheitszentrum Stolberg (Rhld.), Stolberg, Germany
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50
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Yang H, Shu Q, Guo XD. Letter to the Editor concerning: "Nonoperative treatment for nonperforated appendicitis in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis". Pediatr Surg Int 2020; 36:861-862. [PMID: 32394060 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-020-04668-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiang Shu
- Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Dong Guo
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Zhejiang University Jinhua Hospital, No. 365 Renmindong Road, Jinhua, 321000, Zhejiang, China.
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