Diagnosis and management of pediatric appendicitis, intussusception, and Meckel diverticulum

Minimally Invasive Gastrointestinal Surgery: A Review

Minimally invasive surgery uses several procedures with fewer side effects (bleeding, infections, etc.), a shorter hospital stay, and less discomfort following minimally invasive surgery. Laparoscopy was one of the first forms of minimally invasive surgery. It involves doing surgery while using tiny cameras through one or more small incisions, surgical tools along with tubes. Robotic surgery is another kind of minimally invasive procedure. Along with supporting accurate, flexible, and regulated surgical procedures, it provides the physician with a three-dimensional, enlarged view of the operative site. Minimally invasive surgery continues to advance, making it an advantage for patients with a variety of illnesses. Nowadays, many surgeons prefer it to traditional surgery, which frequently necessitates a longer hospital stay and requires larger incisions. Since then, numerous surgical specialties have greatly increased their use of minimally invasive surgery. A minimally invasive procedure is preferred for the majority of patients who require gastrointestinal surgery. Minimally invasive gastrointestinal procedures are just as successful as open procedures and, in some situations, may result in more effective outcomes. While recovery from open surgeries frequently takes five to ten days in the hospital, minimally invasive surgeries are less painful for patients and hasten recovery. It is safe from the perspective of the patient and has a lower postoperative mortality rate. This procedure involves a learning curve among surgeons.

Increase in pediatric complicated appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic: a multi-center retrospective study

Purpose

An increase in the incidence of pediatric complicated appendicitis (CA) during the COVID-19 pandemic has been reported in many countries. We investigated how the pandemic has affected Japan.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed children of ≤ 15 years old treated for acute appendicitis across 5 medical centers during the pandemic period (January to October in 2020), with the pre-pandemic period (January to October in 2017 to 2019) evaluated as a historical control. The incidence of CA and disease characteristics were then compared between the periods.

Results

The total number of patients was 55 in 2020 and 192 in 2017–2019. In all centers, the incidence of acute pediatric CA in the pandemic period significantly increased compared to the pre-pandemic period (18.2% vs. 32.7%, p = 0.02). On limiting our evaluation to the 3 institutions with reductions in patient numbers, the incidence of CA increased (16.3% vs. 37.9%, p = 0.01), and the duration of pre-operative symptoms was prolonged (1.3% vs. 1.7 days, p = 0.03). There were no significant differences in the age, sex, white blood cell count, C-reactive protein, or body temperature. No cases were diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2.

Conclusions

The incidence of acute pediatric CA increased during the pandemic period. This may be related to an extended duration of symptoms due to individuals fearing contracting COVID-19 while visiting a hospital.

Comparative Analysis of the Acute Appendicitis Management in Children Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Introduction: Acute appendicitis (AA) is one of the most common emergency surgical diseases in pediatric population. Herein, we aimed to compare the incidence and severity of AA before and during the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: This multicenter study was conducted in three medical faculty hospitals between the periods of 15 March-30 June 2019 (Group A), and the pandemic period of 15 March-30 June 2020(Group B). We evaluated the clinicopathological characteristics of the patients in each group due to age, gender, serum leukocyte, C-reactive protein, radiological imaging use of postop peritoneal drain and presence of serious complications. Results: A total of 141 patients were identified, 64 in Group A and 77 in Group B. We found higher complication rates in Group B. Fewer patients applied in Group B, but a higher rate of AA was diagnosed. During the COVID-19 period, more patients were admitted with the later stages of the AA and with significant complications. Radiological imaging of patients with appendicitis in Group B showed more severe disease than cases in Group A. Conclusion: Higher rate of perforated and complicated appendicitis in the pandemic period was due to misdiagnosis/delayed diagnosis in primary care centers as a result of fear from contagious coronavirus. While the period of the COVID - 19 pandemic presents difficulties in treating infected patients, we would like to emphasize the importance of a comprehensive assessment and physical examination in children with suspected surgical conditions.

Surgical perspectives of symptomatic omphalomesenteric duct remnants: Differences between infancy and beyond

BACKGROUND

The clinical manifestations of omphalomesenteric duct remnant (OMDR) can vary with the age at diagnosis, from asymptomatic incidental findings to symptoms related to gastrointestinal complications. The lifelong complication rates are reported as 4%-34%, and complications are more common in patients younger than 2 years of age. The authors attempted to identify different clinical features and management for the various pediatric age groups.

AIM

To find surgical perspectives for the pediatric age-related variants of OMDR and make recommendations for optimal management.

METHODS

The medical records of pediatric patients diagnosed with OMDR were reviewed retrospectively. Fifteen patients diagnosed based on incidental findings during other surgeries were excluded. The patients were divided into two groups based on age: < 12 mo (infants) and > 12 mo (beyond infancy). We analyzed the demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, diagnostic tools, surgical procedures, and clinical outcomes of the patients and compared them for the age groups. Chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests were used for nominal scales and a Mann-Whitney test was used for ratio scales.

RESULTS

A total of 35 patients (7 infants, 28 children beyond infancy) were finally included. In both groups, Meckel's diverticulum (MD) was the most common type of OMDR, while umbilical lesions were more common in the infant group (P = 0.006). Hematochezia and abdominal pain were common in the beyond infancy group, while umbilical lesions were the most frequent symptoms in the infant group. Several diagnostic tools were used, but Meckel's scan was most useful in diagnosing OMDR in patients with painless rectal bleeding. Minimally invasive surgery was more commonly performed for children than for infants (P = 0.016). Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) was performed for fifteen patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery. There were only three cases of postoperative complications, and all patients survived in good condition.

CONCLUSION

The clinical type of OMDR varies with age, umbilical lesions in infants, and MD beyond infancy. SILS is effective for managing children with MD regardless of age.

Impact of implementing a fast-track protocol and standardized guideline for the management of pediatric appendicitis

Background:

In 2017, a provincial guideline was created to fast track and standardize care for pediatric appendicitis in Alberta. We conducted a study to determine the impact of implementation of the guideline at our institution on length of stay (LOS), antibiotic stewardship efforts and costs.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective review of the charts of all patients younger than 18 years of age who underwent appendectomy at our institution in 2 periods: before guideline implementation (Dec. 1, 2016, to May 31, 2017) and after implementation (Dec. 1, 2017, to May 31, 2018). We compared LOS, duration of antibiotic therapy, 30-day postdischarge complication rates and variable cost between the 2 cohorts.

Results:

Of the 276 total appendectomy procedures performed, 185 were for simple appendicitis (81 before guideline implementation and 104 after implementation), and 91 were for complicated appendicitis (44 and 47, respectively). The median LOS was shorter in the postimplementation cohort for both simple and complicated appendicitis (15.5 h [interquartile range (IQR) 12–19 h] v. 17.0 h [IQR 13–22 h], p = 0.03; and 3.0 d [IQR 2–4 d] v. 3.0 d [IQR 3–5 d], p = 0.05, respectively). Patients with complicated appendicitis had fewer antibiotic days after guideline implementation; the difference was statistically significant for patients without diffuse peritoneal contamination or abscess formation (p = 0.02). There were no differences between the cohorts with respect to 30-day rates of complications, including emergency department visits, readmission and surgical site infections. After guideline implementation, the average variable cost per patient was reduced by $230, equating to a total average annual cost savings of $75 842 for our institution.

Conclusion:

The implementation of a provincial guideline aimed at standardizing care in pediatric appendicitis at our institution was associated with shortened LOS, improved antibiotic stewardship efforts and reduced cost of care. Other institutions may replicate our model of a standardized pathway in the management of pediatric appendicitis in an effort to improve the quality of patient care and reduce health care costs.

Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on emergency surgery services-a multi-national survey among WSES members

BACKGROUND

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is a major challenge for health care services worldwide. It's impact on oncologic therapies and elective surgery has been described recently, and the literature provides guidelines regarding appropriate elective patient treatment during the pandemic. However, the impact of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on emergency surgery services has been poorly investigated up to now.

METHODS

A 17-item web survey had been distributed to emergency surgeons in June 2020 around the world, investigating the impact of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on patients and septic diseases both requiring emergency surgery and the time-to-intervention in emergency surgery routine, as well as experiences with surgery in COVID-19 patients.

RESULTS

Ninety-eight collaborators from 31 countries responded to the survey. The majority (65.3%) estimated the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on emergency surgical patient care as being strong or very strong. Due to the pandemic, 87.8% reported a decrease in the total number of patients undergoing emergency surgery and approximately 25% estimated a delay of more than 2 h in the time-to-diagnosis and another 2 h in the time-to-intervention. Fifty percent make structural problems with in-hospital logistics (e.g. transport of patients, closed normal wards etc.) mainly responsible for delayed emergency surgery and the frequent need (56.1%) for a triage of emergency surgical patients. 56.1% of the collaborators observed more severe septic abdominal diseases during the pandemic, especially for perforated appendicitis and severe septic cholecystitis (41.8% and 40.2%, respectively). 62.2% had experiences with surgery in COVID-19-infected patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of The WSES COVID-19 emergency surgery survey are alarming. The combination of an estimated decrease in numbers of emergency surgical patients and an observed increase in more severe septic diseases may be a result of the fear of patients from infection with COVID-19 and a consecutive delayed hospital admission and diagnosis. A critical delay in time-to-diagnosis and time-to-intervention may be a result of changes in in-hospital logistics and operating room as well as intensive care capacities. Both reflect the potentially harmful impact of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on emergency surgery services.

Meckel's Diverticulum: A National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Survey in Adults Comparing Diverticulectomy and Small Bowel Resection

BACKGROUND

Meckel's diverticulum is a congenital abnormality often associated with the pediatric population. When seen in the adult population, management is controversial. This study sought to determine demographic and outcome differences between diverticulectomy and small bowel resection in adults diagnosed with Meckel's diverticulum.

METHODS

An analysis of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement database (2015-2018) was performed, capturing patients with a postoperative diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulum. Inclusion criteria included diverticulectomy or small bowel resection, and exclusion criteria included other major procedures such as colectomy or concomitant diverticulectomy and a small bowel resection. Demographics and outcomes were analyzed between those receiving diverticulectomy or resection.

RESULTS

506 patients undergoing surgical treatment of Meckel's diverticulum were captured. The majority of these patients were white (79.05%), male (68.77%), and averaged 46 years old. The 2 populations were homogenous, with no significant differences in demographics or comorbidities between populations. Mean operative time was shorter in the diverticulectomy group than the resection group (68.92 ± 35.89 vs. 89.33 ± 40.16 minutes, P < .0001). There were no deaths at 30 days. Length of stay, readmission rate, wound infection, and discharge destination were similar among both groups.

DISCUSSION

Our analysis of a national database reveals no difference in outcomes between patients receiving a diverticulectomy or resection for Meckel's diverticulum. Operating time may be slightly increased for resection. However, decision to excise the diverticulum vs. the segment of small bowel should be individualized to each patient, their pathology, and clinical picture.

Vomiting of unclear etiology in an autistic child-multiple possible diagnoses: A case report

Appendicitis is a common complaint in the emergency department (ED) presenting with abdominal pain or vomiting and is often the foremost etiology the provider must rule out using history and physical examination. However, history and physical examination is limited in children and the developmentally delayed who are often non-cooperative. Less commonly, choledochal cysts are found that also require management, or rarer still, multiple possible radiologic or surgical diagnoses. This case report follows a delayed child presenting with vomiting found to have a large type 1 choledochal cyst, cholecystitis, and appendicitis on advanced imaging prompting surgical management of these etiologies. This report reviews the evaluation of children with vomiting and the need for thorough evaluation with advanced imaging when appropriate.

Delayed diagnosis of paediatric appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic

Aim

To present seven paediatric patients with appendicitis, all with late diagnosis resulting from different aspects of the fear from the current global COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

Cases were collected from three paediatric surgical wards. Comparison between complicated appendicitis rates in the COVID‐19 era and similar period in previous year was performed.

Results

All seven children presented with complicated appendicitis. Main reasons for the delayed diagnosis during the COVID‐19 era were parental concern, telemedicine use and insufficient evaluation. Higher complication rates were found during the COVID‐19 era compared to similar period in previous year (22% vs 11%, P‐value .06).

Conclusion

The fear from COVID‐19 pandemic may result in delayed diagnosis and higher complication rates in common paediatric medical conditions. We believe caregivers and healthcare providers should not withhold necessary medical care since delay in diagnosis and treatment in these routinely seen medical emergencies may become as big of a threat as COVID‐19 itself.

Altered mental status in a 5-month-old boy

Intussusception in infants can present early as lethargy or altered mental status alone without apparent gastrointestinal manifestations. Awareness of this condition can result in early diagnosis and prevention of further complications.

Lactic acid level as an outcome predictor in pediatric patients with intussusception in the emergency department

Background

Intussusception decreases blood flow to the bowel, and tissue hypoperfusion results in increased lactic acid levels. We aimed to determine whether lactic acid levels are associated with pediatric intussusception outcomes.

Methods

The electronic medical records of our emergency department pediatric patients diagnosed with intussusception, between January 2015 and October 2018, were reviewed. An outcome was considered poor when intussusception recurred within 48 h of reduction or when surgical reduction was required due to air enema failure.

Results

A total of 249 patients were included in the study, including 39 who experienced intussusception recurrence and 11 who required surgical reductions; hence, 50 patients were included in the poor outcome group. The poor and good outcome groups showed significant differences in their respective blood gas analyses for pH (7.39 vs. 7.41, P = .001), lactic acid (1.70 vs. 1.30 mmol/L, P < .001), and bicarbonate (20.70 vs. 21.80 mmol/L, P = .036). Multivariable logistic regression analyses showed that pH and lactic acid levels were the two factors significantly associated with poor outcomes. When the lactic acid level cutoff values were ≥ 1.5, ≥2.0, ≥2.5, and ≥ 3.0 mmol/L, the positive predictive values for poor outcomes were 30.0, 34.6, 50.0, and 88.9%, respectively.

Conclusion

Lactic acid levels affect outcomes in pediatric patients with intussusception; higher lactic acid levels are associated with higher positive predictive values for poor outcomes.

A novel nomogram for the differential diagnosis between advanced and early appendicitis in pediatric patients

Aim: To develop a nomogram for differential diagnosis between advanced and early pediatric appendicitis (PA). Patients & methods: We retrospectively studied 669 PA patients. Patient characteristics and 24 serum markers were subjected to univariate and multivariate analysis, based on which the nomogram was constructed. Results: Fibrin degradation product, CRP and Na⁺ differed significantly between the advanced and early PA. The value of area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.8602, which was greater than that of a single serum marker. Furthermore, the nomogram showed better discriminative ability than the biomarker alone. Notably, validation indicated high stability and reproducibility. Conclusion: The nomogram is superior to the serum marker alone, and may hold promise in clinical application.

An Atypical Case of Abdominal Pain in a Toddler: A Diagnostic Challenge

Abdominal pain in the pediatric patient presents a unique diagnostic challenge for emergency department (ED) providers due to the wide range of possible etiologies and sequelae. The list of differential diagnoses is extensive and includes the spectrum of conditions that range from benign and self-limiting to those that are potentially life-threatening. This article describes a case of a young toddler with an acute appendicitis complicated by perforation and abscess formation. Although acute appendicitis is uncommon in infants and younger children, it does occur and, as this case illustrates, is often misdiagnosed, which leads to delayed treatment and a higher incidence of complications. This article includes a discussion of the challenges faced by ED providers in the clinical-decision making process when caring for a pediatric patient with abdominal pain due to an acute appendicitis. This discussion includes the age-associated epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and evidence-based recommendations for diagnosis and treatment.

Operative treatment for intussusception: Should an incidental appendectomy be performed?

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

An incidental appendectomy is performed by some surgeons during operative treatment for intussusception to eliminate future appendicitis as a diagnostic consideration. However, an appendectomy can increase the risk of infection and other noninfectious complications making an incidental appendectomy controversial. We examined outcomes for surgical intervention for intussusception with appendectomy (SWA) compared to surgical reduction alone (SRA).

METHODS

The Pediatric Health Information System database, 8/2008-9/2015, was retrospectively analyzed for patients under the age of five who required an operative intervention for intussusception without bowel resection. Demographic data and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Available data included need for postoperative enema, subsequent small bowel obstruction, recurrent intussusception, length of stay (LOS), and adjusted total cost (ATC).

RESULTS

Fifty-seven percent (748/1312) of patients had appendectomy performed during surgical reduction, 564 (43%) did not. ATC ($10,594 vs. $8939, p < 0.001) and LOS (3.0 vs. 2.48, p < 0.001) are higher in the SWA group. Rates of readmission are similar, but post-operative small bowel obstruction may be higher in the SWA group (1.3% vs. 0.35%, p = 0.06).

CONCLUSION

There is a higher mean LOS and ATC in the SWA group. This study suggests that appendectomy during surgery for uncomplicated intussusception should be reconsidered and requires further investigation.

TYPE OF STUDY

retrospective comparative study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Association of meteorological factors with pediatric acute appendicitis in China: A 7-year retrospective analysis

Acute appendicitis (AA) affects between 7% and 8% of the world population and is one of the most common general surgical emergencies. The concept of seasonal patterns in the incidence of AA remains controversial. Thus, this study aimed to investigate whether meteorological factors are related to variations in the rate of pediatric AA cases at the Children's Hospital in Chongqing, China.In total, in this retrospective survey, 3436 children younger than 18 years who had been hospitalized with AA from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2013 were enrolled, and the meteorological factors during this period were collected.Patients with AA showed a male/female ratio of 1.81:1; the highest incidence age ranged from 6 to 12 years old (P < .0001). The highest incidences of pediatric AA occurred in summer and autumn, with a peak in September and a trough in February. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the monthly mean temperature (r = 0.357, P = .001), monthly mean relative humidity (r = -0.357, P = .001), and monthly mean sunshine duration (r = 0.235, P = -0.031) were relatively weak correlated with pediatric AA. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that pediatric AA occurrence was positively affected by monthly mean temperature (P < .0001) and negatively affected by monthly mean humidity (P < .0001) and monthly sum of sunshine (P < .0001), while monthly mean air pressure (P = .092), monthly wind speed (P = .143) and monthly precipitation (P = .297) were marginally associated with pediatric AA.Pediatric AA is associated with climatic factors. Specifically, pediatric AA is more likely related to the following meteorological conditions of: high temperature (20 °C-30 °C), low humidity, and less sunshine.

No Prophylactic Antibiotic Use for Young Children's Intussusception with Low-risk Infection after Successful Air Enema Reduction

The Chinese government has issued the policy of promulgating the clinical use of antibacterial drugs since 2011. Prophylactic antibiotic use is a challenging problem among young children with intussusception after successful air enema reduction. There were limited data regarding the clinical value of prophylactic antibiotics for intussusception with low-risk infections. A retrospective non-randomized comparative study was conducted among 188 young children with intussusception after successful air enema reduction between January 1, 2011 and December 30, 2013. Among these children, 51 received prophylactic antibiotics and 137 did not receive antibiotics. Our results showed that there were no significant differences in age, gender, weight, admission period, reduction interval, axillary temperature, leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, mesenteric lymph nodes and complications between groups (P > 0.05). The national policy had significantly improved clinical use of antibiotic for young children with low-risk intussusception (OR < 0.001, P < 0.001). Inpatients days were longer for children used antibiotics than those who did not (median, 27.0 hours vs 21.0 hours, P = 0.003). Prophylactic antibiotics appeared to be of little value after the successful air enema reduction of intussusception in young children with low-risk infection. Policy intervention is effective for antibiotic use in China.

Incidence and epidemiology of intussusception among children under 2 years of age in Chenzhou and Kaifeng, China, 2009-2013

INTRODUCTION

In China, rotavirus is the leading cause of diarrhea hospitalizations among children aged <5 years. A locally manufactured rotavirus vaccine is available for private market use, but little is known about its coverage. Given the impending availability of newer rotavirus vaccines, we evaluated intussusception rates among children aged <2 years to better understand intussusception epidemiology for future vaccine safety monitoring.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review at 4 hospitals in Chenzhou City of Hunan Province and Kaifeng City of Henan Province. We identified intussusception cases admitted during 2009-2013 by reviewing medical records with the ICD-10 discharge code for intussusception and extracting demographic and clinical information from the electronic clinical record systems.

RESULTS

During 2009-2013, 1715 intussusception hospitalizations among 1,487,215 children aged <2 years occurred in both cities. The average annual intussusception hospitalization incidence was 112.9 per 100,000 children aged <2 years (181.8 per 100,000 children <1 year; 56 per 100,000 children 1 to <2 years). Intussusception incidence was low among infants aged <3 months and peaked at age 6-8 months. No clear seasonality was observed. Ultrasound was used to diagnose 95.9% of cases. Enema reduction was performed in 80% cases; 25% of cases in Chenzhou and 16% in Kaifeng required surgical intervention. No deaths were reported. The median time between symptom onset and admission was 1 day.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides information on intussusception incidence and epidemiology in two cities of China during 2009-2013. Monitoring intussusception rates in this population will be important in the post-rotavirus vaccine era.

Accuracy of low dose CT in the diagnosis of appendicitis in childhood and comparison with USG and standard dose CT

OBJECTIVES

Computed tomography should be performed after careful consideration due to radiation hazard, which is why interest in low dose CT has increased recently in acute appendicitis. Previous studies have been performed in adult and adolescents populations, but no studies have reported on the efficacy of using low-dose CT in children younger than 10 years.

METHODS

Patients (n=475) younger than 10 years who were examined for acute appendicitis were recruited. Subjects were divided into three groups according to the examinations performed: low-dose CT, ultrasonography, and standard-dose CT. Subjects were categorized according to age and body mass index (BMI).

RESULTS

Low-dose CT was a contributive tool in diagnosing appendicitis, and it was an adequate method, when compared with ultrasonography and standard-dose CT in terms of sensitivity (95.5% vs. 95.0% and 94.5%, p=0.794), specificity (94.9% vs. 80.0% and 98.8%, p=0.024), positive-predictive value (96.4% vs. 92.7% and 97.2%, p=0.019), and negative-predictive value (93.7% vs. 85.7% and 91.3%, p=0.890). Low-dose CT accurately diagnosed patients with a perforated appendix. Acute appendicitis was effectively diagnosed using low-dose CT in both early and middle childhood. BMI did not influence the accuracy of detecting acute appendicitis on low-dose CT.

CONCLUSION

Low-dose CT is effective and accurate for diagnosing acute appendicitis in childhood, as well as in adolescents and young adults. Additionally, low-dose CT was relatively accurate, irrespective of age or BMI, for detecting acute appendicitis. Therefore, low-dose CT is recommended for assessing children with suspected acute appendicitis.

Appendectomy Skin Closure Technique, Randomized Controlled Trial: Changing Paradigms (ASC)

BACKGROUND

Appendectomy is the most frequent and urgent gastrointestinal surgery. Overtime, the surgical techniques have been improved upon, in order to reduce complications, get better cosmetic results, and limit the discomfort associated with this procedure, by its high impact in the surgery departments. The traditional skin closure is associated with a poor cosmetic result and it requires stitches removal, alongside the pain associated with this procedure, and no benefits were demonstrated in the literature regarding separated stitches over intradermic stitch. This is a randomized controlled trial, and our objective is to compare two different skin closure techniques in open appendectomy.

METHODS

A prospective randomized trial method was used, with a total number of 208 patients participating in the study, after acute appendicitis diagnosis in the emergency department. They were randomized into two groups: patients who would receive skin closure with a unique absorbable intradermic stitch (Group A) and another group that would receive the traditional closure technique, consistent in non-absorbable separated stitches (Group B). General characteristics like gender, age, Body Mass Index (BMI), comorbidities, and allergies were registered. Days of Evolution (DOE) until surgery, previous use of antibiotics, complicated or uncomplicated appendicitis, surgical time, and wound complications like skin infection, dehiscence, seroma or abscess were also registered in each case.

RESULTS

8 patients were excluded due to negative appendicitis during surgery and lack of follow-up. Two groups, each containing 100 patients, were formed. General characteristics and parity were compared, and no statistically significant differences were observed. Difference in the surgical time (Group A: 47.35 min vs Group B: 54.13 min, p < .001) and cases with complicated appendicitis (Group A: 58 and Group B:38, p = .005) were found to be statistically significant. Four wound complications were reported, and the incidence of seroma (Group A:0 and Group B:5, p = .02) and abscess (Group A:2 and Group B:8, p = .05) were found to have some statistical significant difference. In a multivariate analysis, a relationship was observed between BMI > 25 kg/m² and seroma (p = .006), BMI > 25 kg/m² and abscess (p = .02), surgical time >50 min and seroma (p < .001), >2 DOE and abscess (p = .001), and complicated appendicitis with seroma development (p = .03).

CONCLUSION

Open appendectomy skin closure with a unique absorbable intradermic stitch is safe, with a reduced seroma and abscess incidence, compared to traditional closure, and an equivalent dehiscence and superficial infection incidence, allowing a lower hospital attention cost and length of hospital stay for treatment of complications. The relative risk of complications with traditional skin closure is 2.91 higher, compared to this new technique.

Management for intussusception in children

BACKGROUND

Intussusception is a common abdominal emergency in children with significant morbidity. Prompt diagnosis and management reduces associated risks and the need for surgical intervention. Despite widespread agreement on the use of contrast enema as opposed to surgery for initial management in most cases, debate persists on the appropriate contrast medium, imaging modality, pharmacological adjuvant, and protocol for delayed repeat enema, and on the best approach for surgical management for intussusception in children.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the safety and effectiveness of non-surgical and surgical approaches in the management of intussusception in children.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the following electronic databases: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2016, Issue 8) in the Cochrane Library; Ovid MEDLINE (1950 to September 2016); Ovid Embase (1974 to September 2016); Science Citation Index Expanded (via Web of Science) (1900 to September 2016); and BIOSIS Previews (1969 to September 2016).We examined the reference lists of all eligible trials to identify additional studies. To locate unpublished studies, we contacted content experts, searched the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) and ClinicalTrials.gov (September 2016), and explored proceedings from meetings of the British Association of Paedatric Surgeons (BAPS), the American Soceity of Pediatric Surgery, and the World Congress of Pediatric Surgery.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all randomised controlled trials comparing contrast media, imaging modalities, pharmacological adjuvants, protocols for delayed repeat enema, and/or surgical approaches for the management of intussusception in children. We applied no language, publication date, or publication status restrictions.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently conducted study selection and data extraction and assessed risk of bias using a standardised form. We resolved disagreements by consensus with a third review author when necessary. We reported dichotomous outcomes as risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We analysed data on an intention-to-treat basis and evaluated the overall quality of evidence supporting the outcomes by using GRADE criteria.

MAIN RESULTS

We included six randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with a total of 822 participants. Two trials compared liquid enema reduction plus glucagon versus liquid enema alone. One trial compared liquid enema plus dexamethasone versus liquid enema alone. Another trial compared air enema plus dexamethasone versus air enema alone, and two trials compared use of liquid enema versus air enema. We identified three ongoing trials.We judged all included trials to be at risk of bias owing to omissions in reported methods. We judged five of six trials as having high risk of bias in at least one domain. Therefore, the quality of the evidence (GRADE) for outcomes was low. Interventions and data presentation varied greatly across trials; therefore meta-analysis was not possible for most review outcomes. Enema plus glucagon versus enema alone It is uncertain whether use of glucagon improves the rate of successful reduction of intussusception when compared with enema alone (reported in two trials, 218 participants; RR 1.09, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.26;low quality of evidence). No trials in this comparison reported on the number of children with bowel perforation(s) nor on the number of children with recurrent intussusception. Enema plus dexamethasone versus enema alone Use of the adjunct, dexamethasone, may be beneficial in reducing intussusception recurrence with liquid or air enema (two trials, 299 participants; RR 0.14, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.60; low quality of evidence). This equates to a number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome of 13 (95% CI 8 to 37). It is uncertain whether use of the adjunct, dexamethasone, improves the rate of successful reduction of intussusception when compared with enema alone (reported in two trials, 356 participants; RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.10;low quality of evidence). Air enema versus liquid enema Air enema may be more successful than liquid enema for reducing intussusception (two trials, 199 participants; RR 1.28, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.49; low quality of evidence). This equates to a number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome of 6 (95% CI 4 to 19). No trials in this comparison reported on the number of children with bowel perforation(s) or on the number of children with recurrent intussusception nor any intraoperative complications, such as bowel perforation, or other adverse effects. Only one trial reported postoperative complications, but owing to the method of reporting used, a quantitative analysis was not possible. We identified no studies that exclusively evaluated surgical interventions for management of intussusception.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This review identified a small number of trials that assessed a variety of interventions. All included trials provided evidence of low quality and were subject to serious concerns about imprecision, high risk of bias, or both. Air enema may be superior to liquid enema for successfully reducing intussusception in children; however, this finding is based on a few studies including small numbers of participants. Dexamethasone as an adjuvant may be more effective in reducing intussusception recurrence rates following air enema or liquid enema, but these results are also based on a few studies of small numbers of participants. This review highlights several points that need to be addressed in future studies, including reducing the risk of bias and including relevant outcomes. Specifically, surgical trials are lacking, and future research is needed to address this evidence gap.

Risk factors associated with intestinal necrosis in children with failed non-surgical reduction for intussusception

BACKGROUND

Intestinal necrosis is the most serious complication of intussusception. The risk factors associated with intestinal necrosis in pediatric patients with intussusception have not been well characterized.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the risk factors associated with intestinal necrosis in pediatric patients with failed non-surgical reduction for intussusception.

METHODS

Hospitalized patients who failed the air-enema reduction for intussusception in the outpatient department and subsequently underwent surgery were retrospectively reviewed. All cases were categorized into two groups: intestinal necrosis group and non-intestinal necrosis group based on the surgical findings. Demographic and clinical features including the findings from the surgery were recorded and analyzed. Factors associated with intestinal necrosis were analyzed using univariate and multivariate unconditional logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 728 cases were included. Among them, 171 had intestinal necrosis at the time of surgery. The group with intestinal necrosis had a longer duration of symptom or length of illness (P = 0.000), and younger (P = 0.000) than the non-intestinal necrosis group. Complex/compound type of intussusceptions is more likely to have intestinal necrosis. Multivariate analysis showed that the presence of grossly bloody stool (OR = 2.12; 95% CI 1.19-3.76, P = 0.010) and duration of symptom (OR = 1.07; 95% CI 1.06-1.08, P = 0.000) were independent risk factors for intestinal necrosis in patients hospitalized for surgical reduction for intussusceptions.

CONCLUSION

At time of admission, the presence of bloody stools and duration of symptom are the important risk factors for developing intestinal necrosis for those patients who failed non-surgical reduction. The length of illness has the highest sensitivity and specificity to correlate with intestinal necrosis. This finding may suggest that we should take the intussusception cases that have the longer duration of symptom directly to operation room for reduction.

Pediatric appendicitis: state of the art review

Appendicitis is a common cause of abdominal pain in children. The diagnosis and treatment of the disease have undergone major changes in the past two decades, primarily as a result of the application of an evidence-based approach. Data from several randomized controlled trials, large database studies, and meta-analyses have fundamentally affected patient care. The best diagnostic approach is a standardized clinical pathway with a scoring system and selective imaging. Non-operative management of simple appendicitis is a reasonable option in selected cases, with the caveat that data in children remain limited. A minimally invasive (laparoscopic) appendectomy is the current standard in US and European children's hospitals. This article reviews the current 'state of the art' in the evaluation and management of pediatric appendicitis.

Pediatric Abdominal Pain: An Emergency Medicine Perspective

Abdominal pain is a common complaint that leads to pediatric patients seeking emergency care. The emergency care provider has the arduous task of determining which child likely has a benign cause and not missing the devastating condition that needs emergent attention. This article reviews common benign causes of abdominal pain as well as some of the cannot-miss emergent causes.

Pediatric Appendicitis

Appendicitis is one of the most common surgical pathologies in children. It can present with right lower quadrant pain. Scoring systems in combination with selective imaging and surgical examination will diagnose most children with appendicitis. Clinical pathways should be used. Most surgical interventions for appendicitis are now almost exclusively laparoscopic, with trials demonstrating better outcomes for children who undergo index hospitalization appendectomies when perforated. Nonoperative management has a role in the treatment of both uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis. This article discusses the workup and management, modes of treatment, and continued areas of controversy in pediatric appendicitis.

Predictors for bowel resection and the presence of a pathological lead point for operated childhood intussusception: A multi-center study

BACKGROUND

Intussusception may require bowel resection. Here, we aim to define factors that predict the need of bowel resection and the presence of pathological lead point.

METHODS

A retrospective review was taken from three tertiary centers for all operated intussusception patients from January 2010 to December 2014. Patient demographics were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed, and risk factors were derived by binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

Five thousand ninety-six patients were treated for intussusception with 73 (57 male, 16 female) operated. The median age was 23.2months, and median duration of symptoms was 2days. Twenty-eight patients (38.4%) required bowel resection. Logistic regression demonstrated that older age (p=0.018) and longer duration of symptoms (p=0.009) were associated with bowel resection. Furthermore, older age was a predictive factor for the presence of a pathological lead point (p=0.01). A palpable abdominal mass was also found to be associated with the need of bowel resection (risk ratio 2.3) and the presence of pathological lead point (risk ratio 2.3) independently.

CONCLUSION

Older age at presentation and a longer duration of symptoms are positive predictors for the need of bowel resection in intussusception. The presence of a pathological lead point is more likely in older children.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case series with no comparison group - Level IV.

Chronic Intussusception Associated with Malrotation in a Child: A Variation of Waugh's Syndrome?

Chronic intussusception is a relatively uncommon disease most commonly observed in older children. Waugh's syndrome represents a rare entity characterized by intestinal malrotation and acute intussusception. We report a very unusual case of intestinal malrotation associated with chronic intussusception. Clinical presentation, radiological findings, and managing of this association are discussed in the light of the available literature.

Diagnostic Value of White Blood Cell and C-Reactive Protein in Pediatric Appendicitis

Background. Acute appendicitis (AA) associated with acute phase reaction is the most prevalent disease which requires emergency surgery. Its delayed diagnosis and unnecessarily performed appendectomies lead to numerous complications. In our study, we aimed to detect the role of WBC and CRP in the exclusion of acute and complicated appendicitis and diagnostic accuracy in pediatric age group. Methods. Appendectomized patient groups were constructed based on the results of histological evaluation. The area under a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) was performed to examine diagnostic accuracy. Results. When WBC and CRP were used in combination, based on cut-off values of ≥13.1 × 10³/μL for WBC counts and ≥1.17 mg/dL for CRP level, diagnostic parameters were as follows: sensitivity, 98.7%; specificity, 71.3%; PPV, 50.6%; NPV, 99.5%; diagnostic accuracy, 77.6%; LR(+), 3.44; LR(−), 0.017. AUC values were 0.845 (95% CI 0.800–0.891) for WBC and 0.887 (95% CI 0.841–0.932) for CRP. Conclusions. For complicated appendicitis, CRP has the highest degree of diagnostic accuracy. The diagnosis of appendicitis should be made primarily based on clinical examination, and obviously more specific and systemic inflammatory markers are needed. Combined use of cut-off values of WBC (≥13100/μL) and CRP (≥1.17 mg/L) yields a higher sensitivity and NPV for the diagnosis of complicated appendicitis.

Pediatric incidental appendectomy: a systematic review

Incidental appendectomy is the removal of the vermiform appendix accompanying another operation, without evidence of acute appendicitis. It is generally performed to eliminate the risk of future appendicitis. The risks and benefits of incidental appendectomy during various operations in children have been debated for over a century, but need to be revisited in light of innovations in medical practice, including minimally invasive surgery, improved imaging techniques, and use of the appendix as a tubular conduit for reconstruction. A detailed review was undertaken of the techniques, pathology, risks of appendectomy, utility of the appendix, and incidental appendectomy in the treatment of specific pediatric medical conditions. A comprehensive literature search was performed, and retrieved results were reviewed for relevance to the topic. The decision to perform a pediatric incidental appendectomy relies on informed consideration of the individual patient's co-morbid conditions, the indication for the initial operation, the future utility of the appendix, and the risk of future appendiceal pathology. The discussion includes a variety of situations and comorbid conditions that may influence a surgeon's decision to perform incidental appendectomy.

Laparoscopic approach in gastrointestinal emergencies

This review focuses on the laparoscopic approach to gastrointestinal emergencies and its more recent indications. Laparoscopic surgery has a specific place in elective procedures, but that does not apply in emergency situations. In specific emergencies, there is a huge range of indications and different techniques to apply, and not all of them are equally settle. We consider that the most controversial points in minimally invasive procedures are indications in emergency situations due to technical difficulties. Some pathologies, such as oesophageal emergencies, obstruction due to colon cancer, abdominal hernias or incarcerated postsurgical hernias, are nearly always resolved by conventional surgery, that is, an open approach due to limited intraabdominal cavity space or due to the vulnerability of the bowel. These technical problems have been solved in many diseases, such as for perforated peptic ulcer or acute appendectomy for which a laparoscopic approach has become a well-known and globally supported procedure. On the other hand, endoscopic procedures have acquired further indications, relegating surgical solutions to a second place; this happens in cholangitis or pancreatic abscess drainage. This endoluminal approach avoids the need for laparoscopic development in these diseases. Nevertheless, new instruments and new technologies could extend the laparoscopic approach to a broader array of potentials procedures. There remains, however, a long way to go.

Laparoscopy and complicated meckel diverticulum in children

Background and Objectives:

Meckel diverticulum can present with a variety of complications but is often found incidentally during other surgical procedures. The role of laparoscopy in the management of Meckel diverticulum is established. We reviewed our experience with complicated cases of Meckel diverticulum in children managed with laparoscopy.

Methods:

A 15-year retrospective chart review revealed 14 cases of complicated Meckel diverticulum managed with laparoscopy. Incidentally found Meckel diverticulum and cases done by laparotomy were excluded. Ages varied from 2 years to 16 years old. There were 10 males and four females. Eight cases had small bowel obstruction; of those, three had extensive intestinal gangrene. Four cases had significant rectal bleeding, three had acute diverticulitis, and two had intussusception caused by the diverticulum.

Results:

Eleven cases were treated with laparoscopic Meckel diverticulectomy and three with laparoscopic-assisted bowel resection because of extensive gangrene of the intestine. Two of the three cases with significant intestinal gangrene returned several weeks later with small bowel obstruction secondary to adhesions. They were successfully managed with laparoscopic lysis of adhesions. There were no other complications.

Conclusions:

Laparoscopy is safe and effective in the management of complicated Meckel diverticulum in children. Most cases can be managed with simple diverticulectomy. Laparoscopy is useful when the diagnosis is uncertain. When extensive gangrene is present, laparoscopy can help to mobilize the intestine and evaluate the degree of damage, irrigate and cleanse the peritoneal cavity, and minimize the incision necessary to accomplish the bowel resection.

Reducing Antibiotic Use for Young Children with Intussusception following Successful Air Enema Reduction

China introduced a new policy regarding the management of antibiotic use. We evaluated the reasonableness of antibiotic use among children suffering from intussusception before and after policy. A retrospective study was conducted involving 234 young children with intussusception who were treated between January 1, 2011 and December 30, 2013. Demographics and detailed antibiotics regimens were collected. χ² test was used to evaluate differences between the phase I (preintervention, n = 68) and phase II (postintervention, n = 166). We determined that the overall antibiotic use rate following successful air enema reduction was 41% (97/234), which decreased from 99% (67/68) in phase I to 18% (30/166) in phase II. In phase I, prophylactic antibiotic usage reached up to 84% (56/67). The quantity of aztreonam for injection accounted for 63% (45/71), and cefamandole nafate for injection accounted for 25% (18/71). In phases II, prophylactic antibiotic usage were reduced to 13% (4/30). The quantity of aztreonam for injection was decreased to 12% (4/33) and cefamandole nafate for injection was 3% (1/33). Antibiotics' options were more diverse. In conclusion, policy intervention was effective in addressing some aspects of antibacterial drug usage among young children with intussusception. However, excessive drug use remains a public health problem. The guidelines for the antibiotic management of intussusception for children must be established in China.

Colonic cyst in a cat presenting recurrent constipation and abdominal pain

A 5-year-old domestic short-haired spayed female cat was presented for abdominal pain and suspended defecation. Abdominal radiographs confirmed constipation; abdominal ultrasonography showed a cystic oval structure attached to the colon. The structure exhibited a well-defined wall, composed of three layers. Its content was mildly echogenic and inhomogeneous. Laparotomy was performed and complete resection of the structure, and of part of the colon, was required (end-to-end anastomosis). Histopathology confirmed the structure to be a cystic formation of the colon with some areas of mucosal metaplasia. However the question whether the cystic structure was consistent with an intestinal duplication cyst - which is the most likely type of cyst in this particular case - a Meckel's diverticulum remnant, a vitelline duct cyst or a cystic diverticulum of the colon could not be resolved. Postoperatively, no further other episode of constipation occurred.

Strangulated internal hernia by giant Meckel diverticulum presented as acute appendicitis

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Meckel’s diverticulum is commonly asymptomatic, nevertheless when symptomatic is due to the presence of a complication.

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According to descriptions found in medical literature, usually in 90% of the patients with Meckel’s diverticulum length is between 2.9 and 5 cm long by 1.9 and 2 cm of diameter.

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Among 5% of the patients had a giant Meckel’s diverticulum being this condition very unusual.

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Internal hernias may be found when anomalous anatomic structures as Meckel’s diverticulum are present and they can mimic acute appendicitis.

Introduction

Internal hernia due to a Meckel diverticulum is a common presentation of bowel obstruction mostly seen in pediatric population. However, it has been stated that among 5% of the patients had a giant Meckel diverticulum (defined as a Meckel diverticulum with increased dimensions than the ones commonly found), being this condition very unusual.

Presentation of case

We presented a 19 year old male with acute abdominal pain suggestive of appendicitis. During appendectomy we discovered ischemic and necrotic signs in a bowel segment, leading us to perform a laparotomy that revealed a portion of ischemic and necrotic jejunum, and another bowel segment with a strong adherence to the mesentery root that created an internal hernia. The internal hernia was reduced and the injured bowel portions were resected. Necrotic bowel samples were sent to the pathology department who posteriorly reported a giant Meckel diverticulum. The patient had an excellent recovery after procedure.

Discussion

After searching in PubMed for a similar association between Meckel diverticulum and internal hernia, we found few cases that reported a giant Meckel diverticulum and a low occurrence with internal hernias making our case not so common to find.

Conclusion

We concluded that a giant Meckel diverticulum in association with mesenteric defects producing internal hernias are not common pathologies to find together in a patient as our research and case suggest.

A Case of Intussusception with Acute Appendicitis

In children presenting to hospital with gastrointestinal symptoms, diseases such as intussusception and acute appendicitis require particular attention and careful examination. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are important because of possible severe complications such as peritonitis and death. Intussusception and appendicitis share similar clinical manifestations. More importantly, the presence of acute appendicitis together with intussusception in children is very rare. We describe an interesting case of a 38-month-old boy who presented with abdominal pain in the right lower quadrant. His vital signs were stable and laboratory test findings showed no specific alterations. We detected tenderness in the right lower quadrant. A computed tomography scan showed an ileocolic intussusception with no strangulation and diffuse wall thickening of the appendix trapped within the intussusception. The patient underwent an appendectomy and manual reduction.

Risk factors for pediatric intussusception complicated by loss of intestine viability in China from June 2009 to May 2014: a retrospective study

PURPOSE

Intussusception is one of the most common causes of acute abdominal emergencies in infants and preschool children. Loss of intestine viability is the most serious complication of intussusception. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors for loss of intestine viability in pediatric intussusception cases among children.

METHODS

Data were collected for operative pediatric intussusception cases (N = 316) from medical records of 5,537 hospitalized children due to intussusception between June 2009 and May 2014 in a pediatric surgery department of an academic teaching hospital in China. Seventy-six patients (24.1 %) of the operated intussusception cases had complication of loss intestine viability.

RESULTS

Pediatric intussusception cases with loss of intestine viability and without loss of intestine viability were similar in terms of their age, malformation and season of admission. The median time of the duration from onset of symptoms to operative treatment was 23 h (range 3-90 h). The loss of intestine viability group of the intussusception cases was significantly associated with longer length of history (P = 0.000). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for length of history showed that the optimal ratio of sensitivity (0.70) and specificity (0.73) was calculated for the length of history longer than 27.5 h regarding loss of intestine viability of intussusception. In addition, the risk of loss of intestine viability was higher for female (31 %) than for male (20.8 %) (P = 0.049). The loss of intestine viability rate was also significantly higher in ileo-ileal intussusception cases than that of the other types (P = 0.033). However, there is no difference among the other groups.

CONCLUSION

The result of our risk factor analysis for loss of intestine viability in pediatric intussusception cases may help develop a predictability index to prevent the complication to happen. Further prospective studies are required to confirm our findings.

Incidence and risk factors for intussusception among children in northern Israel from 1992 to 2009: a retrospective study

Background

Determining the background incidence of intussusception is important in countries implementing rotavirus immunization. Rotavirus immunization was introduced into the routine infant immunization program in Israel during late 2010. Incidence and risk factors for intussusception were examined in children aged less than five years between 1992 and 2009.

Methods

Data were collected from medical records of children hospitalized due to intussusception (N = 190), and from control children (N = 295), at Carmel and Hillel Yaffe hospitals in northern Israel.

Results

The average annual incidence of intussusception in Jewish and Arab children aged less than five years was estimated at 36.1 (95% CI 17.0-76.5) vs. 23.2 per 100,000 (95% CI 9.3-57.9); for infants less than 12 months of age- 128.1 (95% CI 53.0-309.6) vs. 80.1 (95% CI 29.1-242.6) per 100,000. The risk of intussusception was higher in infants aged 3–5 months: OR 5.30 (95% CI 2.11-13.31) and 6–11 months: OR 2.53 (95% CI 1.13-5.62) when compared to infants aged less than 3 months; in those living in low vs high socioeconomic communities: OR 2.81 (95% CI 1.45-5.43), and in children with recent gastroenteritis: OR 19.90 (95% CI 2.35-168.32) vs children without recent gastroenteritis. Surgical reduction was required in 23.2%. The likelihood of surgery was significantly increased in patients presenting with bloody stool, in Arabs and those who were admitted to Hillel Yaffe Hospital.

Conclusions

The incidence of intussusception prior to universal rotavirus immunization was documented in northern Israel. Despite the lower incidence, Arab patients underwent surgery more often, suggesting delayed hospital admission of Arab as opposed to Jewish patients.

Diagnostic laparoscopy in a twelve year old girl with right iliac fossa pain: A life changing diagnosis of complete androgen insensitivity syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Right iliac fossa (RIF) pain is one of the most common presenting complaints faced by general surgeons in the emergency department. Correct diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention can often pose a challenge.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 12-year-old girl presented to the emergency department with a four day history of initially central acute abdominal pain, now localised in the RIF. During laparoscopy, the following findings were made: macroscopically dilated appendix, right and left gonads at the internal opening of the inguinal canal, empty pelvis with a rudimentary uterus on the right side. No evidence of fallopian tubes or connection of uterus to the vagina and broad based, non-inflamed Meckel's diverticulum. An incidental diagnosis of complete androgen insensitivity syndrome was made.

DISCUSSION

Androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) is a disorder of hormone resistance characterised by a female phenotype in an individual with an XY karyotype and testes producing age-appropriate normal concentrations of androgens.

CONCLUSION

This case report highlights the advantage of laparoscopy as a diagnostic and treatment tool in a twelve year old girl with multiple intra-abdominal findings. While the ultimate diagnosis responsible for her symptom of RIF pain was acute appendicitis, the additional diagnosis of CAIS and incidental Meckel's would have otherwise likely gone undetected.