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Dessalegn M, Negesse A, Deresse T, Yigzaw Birhanu M, Agedew E, Dires G. Perioperative mortality rate and its predictors after emergency laparatomy at Debre Markos comprehensive specialized hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: 2023: retrospective follow-up study. BMC Surg 2024; 24:114. [PMID: 38627671 PMCID: PMC11020798 DOI: 10.1186/s12893-024-02401-7] [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] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency laparatomy is abdominal surgery associated with a high rate of mortality. There are few reports on rates and predictors of postoperative mortality, whereas disease related or time specific studies are limited. Understanding the rate and predictors of mortality in the first 30 days (perioperative period) is important for evidence based decision and counseling of patients. This study aimed to estimate the perioperative mortality rate and its predictors after emergency laparatomy at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023. METHODS This was a Hospital-based retrospective follow-up study conducted at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia among patients who had undergone emergency laparatomy between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2022. Sample of 418 emergency laparatomy patients selected with simple random sampling technique were studied. The data were extracted from March 15, 2023 to April 1, 2023 using a data extraction tool, cleaned, and entered into Epi-Data software version 3.1 before being exported to STATA software version 14.1 for analysis. Predictor variables with P value < 0.05 in multivariable Cox regression were reported. RESULTS Data of 386 study participants (92.3% complete charts) were analyzed. The median survival time was 18 days [IQR: (14, 29)]. The overall perioperative mortality rate in the cohort during the 2978 person-days of observations was 25.5 per 1000 person-days of follow-up [95% CI: (20.4, 30.9))]. Preoperative need for vasopressor [AHR: 1.8 (95% CI: (1.11, 2.98))], admission to intensive care unit [AHR: 2.0 (95% CI: (1.23, 3.49))], longer than three days of symptoms [AHR: 2.2 (95% CI: (1.15, 4.02))] and preoperative sepsis [AHR: 1.8 (95% CI: (1.05, 3.17))] were identified statistically significant predictors of perioperative mortality after emergency laparatomy. CONCLUSIONS The perioperative mortality rate is high. Preoperative need for vasopressors, admission to intensive care unit, longer than three days of symptoms and preoperative sepsis were predictors of increased perioperative mortality rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megbar Dessalegn
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia.
| | - Ayenew Negesse
- Department of Human Nutrition, Health Science College, Debre Markos University, Debre markos, Ethiopia
| | - Tilahun Deresse
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Debre Birhan University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Molla Yigzaw Birhanu
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Eskeziyaw Agedew
- College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre markos, Ethiopia
| | - Gedefaw Dires
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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Deresse T, Tesfahun E, Gebreegziabher ZA, Bogale M, Alemayehu D, Dessalegn M, Kifleyohans T, Eskandar G. Perioperative Adverse Outcome and Its Predictors After Emergency Laparotomy Among Sigmoid Volvulus Patients: Retrospective Follow-Up Study. Open Access Emerg Med 2023; 15:383-392. [PMID: 37876607 PMCID: PMC10591608 DOI: 10.2147/oaem.s430193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Acute sigmoid volvulus is a surgical emergency with closed-loop obstruction of the colon that often requires emergency laparotomy, which is associated with a multitude of post-operative complications. Although sigmoid volvulus is the main cause of intestinal obstruction in Ethiopia, local studies of its management outcomes are limited. Objective To assess the magnitude and predictors of adverse perioperative outcomes of emergency laparotomy for acute sigmoid volvulus in the Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (DMCSH), Amhara region, Ethiopia in 2023. Methods This was a retrospective follow-up study. Descriptive statistics were used to measure perioperative outcomes and other study variables. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify the predictors of adverse surgical outcomes. Associations were considered significant at p < 0.05 (95% confidence interval). Results In total, 170 study participants were enrolled, with a response rate of 91.4%. Forty-nine patients (28.8%) developed perioperative adverse outcomes. Pneumonia (29 patients, 28.1%), surgical site infection (19 patients, 18.4%), and wound dehiscence (10 patients, 9.7%) were the most common complications. Pre-operative shock [AOR: 3.87 (95% CI: (1.22, 12.28))], pus or fecal matter contamination of the peritoneum [AOR: 4.43 (95% CI: (1.35, 14.47)], and a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score [AOR: 2.37 (95% CI: (1.05, 5.34))] were identified as predictors of perioperative adverse events. Conclusion The perioperative adverse outcomes in this study were higher than those reported in Ethiopian national and global reports following emergency laparotomies. Hypotension at presentation, pus and/or fecal matter contamination of the peritoneum, and higher ASA scores are strong predictors of increased perioperative adverse outcomes. Therefore, healthcare providers and institutions involved in the delivery of emergency surgical care should emphasize the importance of early surgical intervention, adequate resuscitation, and patient monitoring to improve perioperative outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilahun Deresse
- Department of Surgery, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Esubalew Tesfahun
- Department of Public Health, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | | | - Mandante Bogale
- Department of Surgery, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Dawit Alemayehu
- Department of Surgery, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Megbar Dessalegn
- Department of Surgery, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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Purcell M, Reeves R, Mayfield M. Examining delays in diagnosis for slipped capital femoral epiphysis from a health disparities perspective. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269745. [PMID: 35749448 PMCID: PMC9231816 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE) is a skeletal pathology affecting adolescents which requires timely surgery to prevent progression. Delays in diagnosis and treatment of SCFE can negatively affect patient prognosis, and few studies have examined how health disparities and barriers to care may influence these delays. In particular, only a handful of studies have included a Hispanic patient sample, despite this ethnic group’s increased risk for the disease and unique barriers to care. A retrospective chart review was conducted for 124 patients surgically treated for idiopathic SCFE from January 2010 to September 2017. Patient data included age, facility and date of diagnosis, sex, BMI, race and ethnicity, Southwick slip angle, and insurance type. Results indicated that patients with private insurance were more likely to present with a mild slip than patients who were insured by Medicaid or uninsured, while patients without insurance were more likely to have severe slips. Patients without insurance also had a significantly higher mean slip than patients with insurance. The relationship between insurance status and slip angle degree was significant independent of race, even though Hispanic individuals were significantly more likely to have Medicaid or be uninsured. All patients without insurance, and a majority of those with Medicaid, were diagnosed in the emergency department. Time to diagnosis and slip angle were positively correlated, which suggests that longer delays led to increase of the slip angle, consistent with previous findings. Time to diagnosis and BMI were also correlated, which may be tied to socioeconomic factors, but the possibility of weight bias should not be dismissed. These results suggest that socioeconomic status and other factors may have contributed to barriers to care which led to delays in diagnosis and thus more severe slips. Future SCFE research should include health disparities variables to better inform treatment and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen Purcell
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas, United States of America
| | - Rustin Reeves
- Department of Physiology and Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Matthew Mayfield
- Department of Orthopedics, Cook Children’s Medical Center, Fort Worth, Texas, United States of America
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Epidemiology of Pediatric Foreign Body Ingestions Amidst the Coronavirus 2019 Pandemic at a Tertiary Care Children’s Hospital. JPGN REPORTS 2022; 3:e168. [PMID: 35128537 PMCID: PMC8808762 DOI: 10.1097/pg9.0000000000000168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Objectives: Methods: Results: Conclusions:
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Pogorelić Z, Anand S, Žuvela T, Singh A, Križanac Z, Krishnan N. Incidence of Complicated Appendicitis during the COVID-19 Pandemic versus the Pre-Pandemic Period: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 2782 Pediatric Appendectomies. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:127. [PMID: 35054293 PMCID: PMC8774400 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12010127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted volume, management strategies and patient outcomes of acute appendicitis. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate whether the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in higher incidence of complicated appendicitis in children presenting with acute appendicitis compared to the pre-COVID-19 period. The secondary aim was to investigate the proportion of the patients treated by non-operative management (NOM). METHODS A systematic search of four scientific databases was performed. The search terms used were (coronavirus OR SARS-CoV-2 OR COVID-19 OR novel coronavirus) AND (appendicitis). The inclusion criteria were all patients aged <18 years and diagnosed with acute appendicitis during the COVID-19 and pre-COVID-19 periods. The proportion of children presenting with complicated appendicitis and the proportion of children managed by NOM was compared between the two groups. The Downs and Black scale was used for methodological quality assessment. RESULTS The present meta-analysis included thirteen studies (twelve retrospective studies and one cross-sectional study). A total of 2782 patients (1239 during the COVID-19 period) were included. A significantly higher incidence of complicated appendicitis (RR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.33-2.01, p < 0.00001) and a significantly higher proportion of children managed via the NOM (RR = 1.95, 95% CI 1.45-2.61, p < 0.00001) was observed in patients during the COVID-19 pandemic when compared to the pre-COVID-19 period. CONCLUSION There is a significantly higher incidence of complicated appendicitis in children during the COVID-19 pandemic than in the pre-COVID-19 period. Additionally, a significantly higher proportion of children was managed via the NOM during the pandemic in comparison to the pre-pandemic period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zenon Pogorelić
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital of Split, 21 000 Split, Croatia
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21 000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Sachit Anand
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai 400053, India;
| | - Tomislav Žuvela
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Split, 21 000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Apoorv Singh
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India; (A.S.); (N.K.)
| | - Zvonimir Križanac
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital of Split, 21 000 Split, Croatia;
| | - Nellai Krishnan
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India; (A.S.); (N.K.)
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Delayed presentation and sub-optimal outcomes of pediatric patients with acute appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Pediatr Surg 2021; 56:905-910. [PMID: 33220973 PMCID: PMC7569380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Early presentation and prompt diagnosis of acute appendicitis are necessary to prevent progression of disease leading to complicated appendicitis. We hypothesize that patients had a delayed presentation of acute appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected severity of disease on presentation and outcomes. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of all patients who were treated for acute appendicitis at Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital (MSCH) between March 1, 2020 and May 31, 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic was at its peak in New York City (NYC). For comparison, we reviewed patients treated from March 1, 2019 to May 31, 2019, prior to the pandemic. Demographics and baseline patient characteristics were analyzed for potential confounding variables. Outcomes were collected and grouped into those quantifying severity of illness on presentation to our ED, type of treatment, and associated post-treatment outcomes. Fisher's Exact Test and Kruskal-Wallis Test were used for univariate analysis while cox regression with calculation of hazard ratios was used for multivariate analysis. RESULTS A total of 89 patients were included in this study, 41 patients were treated for appendicitis from March 1 to May 31 of 2019 (non-pandemic) and 48 were treated during the same time period in 2020 (pandemic). Duration of symptoms prior to presentation to the ED was significantly longer in patients treated in 2020, with a median of 2 days compared to 1 day (p = 0.003). Additionally, these patients were more likely to present with reported fever (52.1% vs 24.4%, p = 0.009) and had a higher heart rate on presentation with a median of 101 beats per minute (bpm) compared to 91 bpm (p = 0.040). Findings of complicated appendicitis on radiographic imaging including suspicion of perforation (41.7% vs 9.8%, p < 0.001) and intra-abdominal abscess (27.1% vs 7.3%, p = 0.025) were higher in patients presenting in 2020. Patients treated during the pandemic had higher rates of non-operative treatment (25.0% vs 7.3%, p = 0.044) requiring increased antibiotic use and image-guided percutaneous drain placement. They also had longer hospital length of stay by a median of 1 day (p = 0.001) and longer duration until symptom resolution by a median of 1 day (p = 0.004). Type of treatment was not a predictor of LOS (HR = 0.565, 95% CI = 0.357-0.894, p = 0.015) or duration until symptom resolution (HR = 0.630, 95% CI = 0.405-0.979, p = 0.040). CONCLUSION Patients treated for acute appendicitis at our children's hospital during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic presented with more severe disease and experienced suboptimal outcomes compared to those who presented during the same time period in 2019. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Lan J, Zhu H, Liu Q, Guo C. Inflammatory Markers and Duration of Symptoms Have a Close Connection With Diagnosis and Staging of Acute Appendicitis in Children. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:583719. [PMID: 34150681 PMCID: PMC8212955 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.583719] [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: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: For children with acute appendicitis (AA), a clear diagnosis is a challenge. The purpose of this study is to explore whether inflammatory markers in the blood combined with symptom duration are helpful in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis and in predicting the severity of acute appendicitis. Methods: All the selected patients underwent appendectomy between November 10, 2011 and November 15, 2019, in whom preoperative WBCC, CRP, and NE% had been measured in a short time. All patients were divided into two groups: uncomplicated AA and complicated AA, postoperatively. Results: For our standards, 813 patients were selected, 442 of them had complicated AA. The mean [standard deviation (SD)] age for the uncomplicated AA group was 9.78 ± 2.02 years and for the complicated AA group was 9.69 ± 2.16 years (P = 0.55). Elevated WBCC, CRP, and NE% had a higher relatively sensitivity in complicated AA than uncomplicated AA especially when WBCC, CRP, and NE% were at normal levels, which had a sensitivity of 100% in uncomplicated AA, but this only applied to nine patients. CRP values were significantly different in three time groups, whether uncomplicated or complicated AA. Conclusion: The combination of WBCC, CRP, and NE% values is very sensitive for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis, and when we predict complicated AA using the CRP value, we also need to consider the time of symptom onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaming Lan
- Department of Pediatric General Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hai Zhu
- Department of Pediatric General Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingshuang Liu
- Department of Pediatric General Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chunbao Guo
- Department of Pediatric General Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Children's Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Ladd MR, Pajewski NM, Becher RD, Swanson JM, Gallaher JR, Pranikoff T, Neff LP. Delays in Treatment of Pediatric Appendicitis: A More Accurate Variable for Measuring Pediatric Healthcare Inequalities? Am Surg 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/000313481307900919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Racial and socioeconomic factors may cause barriers to healthcare access that result in delayed treatment. Because perforated appendicitis (PA) in children is thought to result from delays in treatment, it is often used as an index of barrier to access. Recent literature suggests that PA is not an inevitable consequence of delayed treatment, so it may not be the best marker for evaluating such barriers. Therefore we investigated whether racial and socioeconomic factors led directly to delays in treatment. We performed a retrospective study of 667 children undergoing appendectomy in a tertiary care center over 12.5 years. Univariate and multivariable regression analyses were used to determine if racial and socioeconomic variables were associated with increased risk of PA and increased risk of symptom duration greater than 48 hours. Hispanic children have higher rates of PA regardless of delays in treatment whereas Black children had higher PA rates likely due to delays in treatment. These differences were not from socioeconomic factors in our cohort. PA, a heterogeneous disease whose course is determined by multiple factors, is not a good metric for evaluation healthcare disparities in the pediatric population. Delays in treatment may be a more appropriate measure of healthcare inequalities in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell R. Ladd
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Nicholas M. Pajewski
- Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Robert D. Becher
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - John M. Swanson
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Jared R. Gallaher
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Thomas Pranikoff
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Lucas P. Neff
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Department of General Surgery, University of California at Davis, Sacramento, California
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Sakellaris G, Dimopoulou D, Niniraki M, Dimopoulou A, Alegakis A, Symvoulakis EK, Kostaki D, Blevrakis E, Kolivaki S, Chryssos E. The role of blood inflammatory markers in the diagnosis of appendicitis in children: a prospective study from a University Hospital in Greece. GAZZETTA MEDICA ITALIANA ARCHIVIO PER LE SCIENZE MEDICHE 2020. [DOI: 10.23736/s0393-3660.18.03636-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Omling E, Salö M, Saluja S, Bergbrant S, Olsson L, Persson A, Björk J, Hagander L. Nationwide study of appendicitis in children. Br J Surg 2019; 106:1623-1631. [PMID: 31386195 PMCID: PMC6852580 DOI: 10.1002/bjs.11298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paediatric surgical care is increasingly being centralized away from low-volume centres, and prehospital delay is considered a risk factor for more complicated appendicitis. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of paediatric appendicitis in Sweden, and to assess whether distance to the hospital was a risk factor for complicated disease. METHODS A nationwide cohort study of all paediatric appendicitis cases in Sweden, 2001-2014, was undertaken, including incidence of disease in different population strata, with trends over time. The risk of complicated disease was determined by regression methods, with travel time as the primary exposure and individual-level socioeconomic determinants as independent variables. RESULTS Some 38 939 children with appendicitis were identified. Of these, 16·8 per cent had complicated disease, and the estimated risk of paediatric appendicitis by age 18 years was 2·5 per cent. Travel time to the treating hospital was not associated with complicated disease (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1·00 (95 per cent c.i. 0·96 to 1·05) per 30-min increase; P = 0·934). Level of education (P = 0·177) and family income (P = 0·120) were not independently associated with increased risk of complicated disease. Parental unemployment (adjusted OR 1·17, 95 per cent c.i. 1·05 to 1·32; P = 0·006) and having parents born outside Sweden (1 parent born in Sweden: adjusted OR 1·12, 1·01 to 1·25; both parents born outside Sweden: adjusted OR 1·32, 1·18 to 1·47; P < 0·001) were associated with an increased risk of complicated appendicitis. CONCLUSION Every sixth child diagnosed with appendicitis in Sweden has a more complicated course of disease. Geographical distance to the surgical facility was not a risk factor for complicated appendicitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Omling
- Paediatric Surgery, Department of Clinical Sciences LundLund University, Skåne University HospitalLundSweden
| | - M. Salö
- Paediatric Surgery, Department of Clinical Sciences LundLund University, Skåne University HospitalLundSweden
| | - S. Saluja
- Department of SurgeryWeill Cornell MedicineNew YorkUSA
| | - S. Bergbrant
- Paediatric Surgery, Department of Clinical Sciences LundLund University, Skåne University HospitalLundSweden
| | - L. Olsson
- Paediatric Surgery, Department of Clinical Sciences LundLund University, Skåne University HospitalLundSweden
| | - A. Persson
- Department of Physical Geography and Ecosystem ScienceLund UniversityLundSweden
- GIS CentreLund UniversityLundSweden
| | - J. Björk
- Department of Laboratory MedicineLund University, Skåne University HospitalLundSweden
- Forum South, Clinical Studies SwedenLund University, Skåne University HospitalLundSweden
| | - L. Hagander
- Paediatric Surgery, Department of Clinical Sciences LundLund University, Skåne University HospitalLundSweden
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Stankovic N, Surbatovic M, Stanojevic I, Simić R, Djuricic S, Milickovic M, Grujic B, Savic D, Marinovic VM, Stankovic M, Vojvodic D. Possible cytokine biomarkers in pediatric acute appendicitis. Ital J Pediatr 2019; 45:125. [PMID: 31615548 PMCID: PMC6794741 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-019-0726-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnosis of acute appendicitis (AA) and decisions about its treatment remain among the most common dilemmas of pediatric surgical teams. Monitoring of immune response may be of importance for this purpose. Our aim was to measure and analyze serum and peritoneal fluid cytokines, in children who had undergone surgery for suspected AA. METHODS Prospective investigation of serum and peritoneal fluid cytokine values was performed in 127 consecutive patients. According to the pathohistological findings, patients were divided into three groups: normal/early, uncomplicated and complicated AA. Determination of cytokine concentrations for 20 different cytokines was done using a commercial flow cytometry kit: Human Inflammation 20 plex BMS 819. RESULTS Statistically significant differences in serum cytokine values between pathohistological groups were found for IP-10, MIP-1α and IL-10. Preoperative cut-off values of IP-10, MIP-1α and IL-10 between groups were obtained using ROC curve analysis. Positive correlations between serum and peritoneal concentrations were recorded for most of the analyzed cytokines. CONCLUSION IP-10, MIP-1α and IL-10 showed potential in assessment of AA in children. Confirmatory studies with a larger number of patients are required to prove reliability of these biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikola Stankovic
- Mother And Child Health Care Institute of Serbia, Radoja Dakica 6, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia. .,Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Maja Surbatovic
- Military Medical Academy, Belgrade, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine of the Military Medical Academy, University of Defence, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivan Stanojevic
- Military Medical Academy, Belgrade, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine of the Military Medical Academy, University of Defence, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Radoje Simić
- Mother And Child Health Care Institute of Serbia, Radoja Dakica 6, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Slavisa Djuricic
- Mother And Child Health Care Institute of Serbia, Radoja Dakica 6, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia.,Banjaluka University School of Medicine, Banjaluka, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Maja Milickovic
- Mother And Child Health Care Institute of Serbia, Radoja Dakica 6, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Blagoje Grujic
- Mother And Child Health Care Institute of Serbia, Radoja Dakica 6, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Djordje Savic
- Mother And Child Health Care Institute of Serbia, Radoja Dakica 6, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vesna Milojkovic Marinovic
- Mother And Child Health Care Institute of Serbia, Radoja Dakica 6, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Danilo Vojvodic
- Military Medical Academy, Belgrade, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine of the Military Medical Academy, University of Defence, Belgrade, Serbia
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Anandalwar SP, Cameron DB, Graham DA, Melvin P, Dunlap JL, Kashtan M, Hall M, Saito JM, Barnhart DC, Kenney BD, Rangel SJ. Association of Intraoperative Findings With Outcomes and Resource Use in Children With Complicated Appendicitis. JAMA Surg 2019; 153:1021-1027. [PMID: 30046808 DOI: 10.1001/jamasurg.2018.2085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Importance The influence of disease severity on outcomes and use of health care resources in children with complicated appendicitis is poorly characterized. Adjustment for variation in disease severity may have implications for ensuring fair reimbursement and comparative performance reporting among hospitals. Objective To examine the association of intraoperative findings as a measure of disease severity with complication rates and resource use in children with complicated appendicitis. Design This retrospective cohort study used clinical data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program pediatric appendectomy pilot database (NSQIP-P database) and cost data from the Pediatric Health Information System database. Twenty-two children's hospitals participated in the NSQIP Pediatric Appendectomy Collaborative Pilot Project. Patients aged 3 to 18 years with complicated appendicitis who underwent an appendectomy from January 1, 2013, through December 31, 2014, were included in the study. Appendicitis was categorized in the NSQIP-P database as complicated if any of the following 4 intraoperative findings occurred in the operative report: visible hole, fibropurulent exudate in more than 2 quadrants, abscess, or extraluminal fecalith. Data were analyzed from January 1, 2013, through December 31, 2014. Main Outcomes and Measures Thirty-day postoperative adverse event rate, revisit rate, hospital cost, and length of stay. Multivariable regression was used to estimate event rates and outcomes for all observed combinations of intraoperative findings, with adjusting for patient characteristics and clustering within hospitals. Results A total of 1333 patients (58.7% boys; median age, 10 years; interquartile range, 7-12 years) were included; multiple intraoperative findings of complicated appendicitis were reported in 589 (44.2%). Compared with single findings, the presence of multiple findings was associated with higher rates of surgical site infection (odds ratio, 1.40; 95% CI, 0.95-2.06; P = .09), higher revisit rates (odds ratio, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.15-2.21; P = .005), longer length of stay (rate ratio, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.36-1.55; P < .001), and higher hospital cost (rate ratio, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.19-1.53; P < .001). Significant differences were found among different combinations of intraoperative findings for all outcomes, including a 3.6-fold difference in rates of surgical site infection (range, 7.5% for fecalith alone to 27.2% for all 4 findings; P = .002), a 2.6-fold difference in revisit rates (range, 8.9% for exudate alone to 22.9% for all 4 findings; P = .001), a 2.2-fold difference in length of stay (range, 4.0 days for exudate alone to 8.9 days for all 4 findings; P < .001), and a 2.4-fold difference in mean cumulative cost (range, $13 296 for exudate alone to $32 282 for all 4 findings; P < .001). Conclusions and Relevance More severe presentations of complicated appendicitis are associated with worse outcomes and greater resource use. Severity adjustment may be needed to ensure fair reimbursement and comparative performance reporting, particularly at hospitals treating underserved populations where more severe presentations are common.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema P Anandalwar
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Danielle B Cameron
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dionne A Graham
- Center for Applied Pediatric Quality Analytics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Patrice Melvin
- Center for Applied Pediatric Quality Analytics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jonathan L Dunlap
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mark Kashtan
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Jacqueline M Saito
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Douglas C Barnhart
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Brian D Kenney
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Shawn J Rangel
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Zogg CK, Scott JW, Bhulani N, Gluck AR, Curfman GD, Davis KA, Dimick JB, Haider AH. Impact of Affordable Care Act Insurance Expansion on Pre-Hospital Access to Care: Changes in Adult Perforated Appendix Admission Rates after Medicaid Expansion and the Dependent Coverage Provision. J Am Coll Surg 2018; 228:29-43.e1. [PMID: 30359835 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2018.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Affordable Care Act (ACA) changed the landscape of insurance coverage, allowing young adults to remain on their parents' insurance until age 26 (Dependent Coverage Provision [DCP]) and states to optionally expand Medicaid up to 133% of the federal poverty level. Although both improved insurance coverage, little is known about the ACA's impact on observed receipt of timely access to acute care. The objective of this study was to compare changes in insurance coverage and perforation rates among hospitalized adults with acute appendicitis "after vs before" Medicaid expansion and the DCP using an Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)-certified metric designed to measure pre-hospital access to care. STUDY DESIGN We performed a quasi-experimental, difference-in-difference (DID) analysis of 2008-2015 state-level inpatient claims. RESULTS Adults, aged 19 to 64, in expansion states experienced an absolute 7.7 percentage point decline in uninsured (95% CI 7.5 to 7.9) after Medicaid expansion compared with nonexpansion states. This coincided with a 5.4 percentage point drop in admissions for perforated appendicitis (95% CI 5.0 to 5.8) that was most pronounced among young adults, aged 26 to 34, just age-ineligible for the DCP (DID: 11.5 percentage points). Medicaid expansion insurance changes were 4.1 times larger than those encountered under the DCP (DID: 1.9). They affected all population subgroups and significantly reduced access-related disparities in race/ethnicity and lower-income communities. Although both Medicaid expansion and the DCP were associated with significant insurance gains, those attributable to the DCP were more concentrated among more privileged patients. Despite this trend, both policies resulted in larger reductions in perforation rates for historically uninsured and underserved groups. CONCLUSIONS Reductions in uninsured after Medicaid expansion and the DCP were associated with significant reductions in perforated appendix admission rates. Improvements in access to acute surgical care suggest that maintained/continued insurance expansion could lead to fewer delays, better patient outcomes, and reductions in disparities among the most at-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl K Zogg
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; Solomon Center for Health Law and Policy, Yale Law School, New Haven, CT; Center for Surgery and Public Health: Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA.
| | - John W Scott
- Center for Surgery and Public Health: Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Nizar Bhulani
- Center for Surgery and Public Health: Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Abbe R Gluck
- Solomon Center for Health Law and Policy, Yale Law School, New Haven, CT
| | - Gregory D Curfman
- Solomon Center for Health Law and Policy, Yale Law School, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Justin B Dimick
- Center for Healthcare Outcomes and Policy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Adil H Haider
- Center for Surgery and Public Health: Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
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Sarda S, Short HL, Hockenberry JM, McCarthy I, Raval MV. Regional variation in rates of pediatric perforated appendicitis. J Pediatr Surg 2017; 52:1488-1491. [PMID: 28259382 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2017.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Revised: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While trends in perforated appendicitis (PA) rates have been studied, regional variability in pediatric admissions for PA remains unknown. METHODS A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of the 2006-2012 Kids' Inpatient Database was conducted to examine variation in PA admission rates by region of the United States and insurance status. PA rates were calculated and reported as per 1000 admissions in accordance with national quality measure specifications. RESULTS National PA rates per 1000 admissions for 2006, 2009, and 2012 were 313.9, 279.2, and 309.1, respectively. Similarly, all regions demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in PA rates between 2006 and 2009 (p<0.001), where the increase in rates between 2009 and 2012 was only statistically significant in the Midwest [Odds Ratio (OR) 1.07; 95% Confidence Interval (95%CI) 1.03-1.12] and West (OR 1.10; 95% CI 1.07-1.14). The Northeast consistently experienced the lowest PA rates. The odds of PA were highest among uninsured patients (OR 1.35; 95% CI 1.31-1.29). The South had the highest proportion of uninsured children, and these patients had the highest odds of perforation (OR 1.57; 95% CI 1.21-2.02). CONCLUSIONS For children with appendicitis, geographic region and insurance status appear to be associated with perforation upon presentation. Understanding regional variation in pediatric PA rates may inform health policymakers in the constantly evolving insurance coverage landscape. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE RATING Level III Treatment Study - Retrospective comparative study of appendicitis presentation in children by region of the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir Sarda
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Heather L Short
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jason M Hockenberry
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ian McCarthy
- Deparment of Economics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Mehul V Raval
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2010 Dependent Coverage Provision (DCP) of the Affordable Care Act allowed young adults to remain on their parents' health insurance plans until age 26 years. Although the provision improved coverage and survey-reported access to care, little is known regarding its impact on timely access for acute conditions. This study aims to assess changes in insurance coverage and perforation rates among young adults with acute appendicitis-an established metric for population-level health care access-after the DCP. METHODS The National Inpatient Sample and difference-in-differences linear regression were used to assess prepolicy/postpolicy changes for policy-eligible young adults (aged 19-25 y) compared with a slightly older, policy-ineligible comparator group (aged 26-34 y). RESULTS After adjustment for covariates, 19-25 year olds experienced a 3.6-percentage point decline in the uninsured rate after the DCP (baseline 22.5%), compared with 26-34 year olds (P<0.001). This coincided with a 1.4-percentage point relative decline in perforated appendix rate for 19-25 year olds (baseline 17.5%), compared with 26-34 year olds (P=0.023). All subgroups showed significant reductions in uninsured rates; however, statistically significant reductions in perforation rates were limited to racial/ethnic minorities, patients from lower-income communities, and patients presenting to urban teaching hospitals. CONCLUSIONS Reductions in uninsured rates among young adults after the DCP were associated with significant reductions in perforated appendix rates relative to a comparator group, suggesting that insurance expansion could lead to fewer delays in seeking and accessing care for acute conditions. Greater relative declines in perforation rates among the most at-risk subpopulations hold important implications for the use of coverage expansion to mitigate existing disparities in access to care.
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Scott JW, Havens JM, Wolf LL, Zogg CK, Rose JA, Salim A, Haider AH. Insurance status is associated with complex presentation among emergency general surgery patients. Surgery 2016; 161:320-328. [PMID: 27712875 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2016.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Affordable Care Act has the potential to significantly affect access to care for previously uninsured patients in need of emergency general surgical care. Our objective was to determine the relationship between insurance status and disease complexity at presentation among a national sample of emergency general surgical patients. METHODS Data from the National Emergency Department Sample from 2006-2009 were queried to identify all patients aged 18-64 years old admitted through the emergency department with a primary diagnosis of appendicitis, diverticulitis, inguinal hernia, or bowel obstruction. Primary outcome of complex presentation was defined as also presenting with generalized peritonitis, intra-abdominal abscess, perforated bowel, intestinal gangrene, or other disease-specific measures of complexity. We used multivariable logistic regression to determine the independent association between insurance status and complex presentation. Models accounted for patient- and hospital-level covariates. Counterfactual models were used to estimate the risk of complex presentation attributable to lack of insurance. RESULTS A total of 1,373,659 patients were included, with an overall uninsured rate of 12.3%. Uninsured patients had significantly higher, unadjusted rates of complex presentation, and uninsured payer status was independently associated with complex presentation (odds ratio 1.38, 95% confidence interval: 1.34-1.42). Counterfactual models suggest that having insurance would result in a 22.37% (95% confidence interval: 22.35-22.39%) relative decline in risk of complex emergency general surgical presentation among the uninsured population. CONCLUSION Insurance status is independently associated with severity of disease at presentation among emergency general surgical conditions nationally. In light of recently reaffirmed Affordable Care Act insurance expansion provisions, these results anticipate increased timely access to operative care for newly insured patients and a corresponding decline in complex, emergency general surgical presentations.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Scott
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA.
| | - Joaquim M Havens
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Division of Trauma, Burns, and Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Lindsey L Wolf
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Cheryl K Zogg
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - John A Rose
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Ali Salim
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Division of Trauma, Burns, and Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Adil H Haider
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA; Division of Trauma, Burns, and Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
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Choi JY, Ryoo E, Jo JH, Hann T, Kim SM. Risk factors of delayed diagnosis of acute appendicitis in children: for early detection of acute appendicitis. KOREAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 2016; 59:368-373. [PMID: 27721841 PMCID: PMC5052135 DOI: 10.3345/kjp.2016.59.9.368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Purpose This study examined the risk factors of a delayed diagnosis of acute appendicitis in children undergoing an appendectomy. Methods This retrospective study involved children aged below 18 years, who underwent an appendectomy. After dividing them into a delayed diagnosis group and nondelayed diagnosis group according to the time interval between the initial hospital visit and final diagnosis, the risk factors of delayed diagnosis were identified using logistic regression analysis. Results Among 712 patients, 105 patients (14.7%) were classified in the delayed diagnosis group; 92 patients (12.9%) were diagnosed using ultrasonography (US), and both US and computed tomography were performed in 38 patients (5.3%). More patients in the delayed diagnosis group underwent US (P=0.03). Spring season and prior local clinic visit were significantly associated with a delayed diagnosis. Fever and diarrhea were more common in the delayed diagnosis group (fever: odds ratio [OR], 1.37; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05–1.81; diarrhea: OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.08–3.46; P<0.05). These patients showed symptoms for a longer duration (OR, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.78–3.78; P<0.05), and the admission course (OR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.11–1.44; P<0.05) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels (OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.19–1.82; P<0.05) were associated with the delayed diagnosis. Conclusion To decrease the rate of delayed diagnoses of acute appendicitis, symptoms such as fever and diarrhea, seasonal variations, admission course, and CRP levels should be considered and children with a longer duration of symptoms should be closely monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jea Yeon Choi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Eell Ryoo
- Department of Pediatrics, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Jeong Hyun Jo
- Department of Pediatrics, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Tchah Hann
- Department of Pediatrics, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
| | - Seong Min Kim
- Department of General Surgery, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
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Levas MN, Dayan PS, Mittal MK, Stevenson MD, Bachur RG, Dudley NC, Bajaj L, Macias CG, Bennett J, Dowd MD, Thomas AJ, Kharbanda AB. Effect of Hispanic ethnicity and language barriers on appendiceal perforation rates and imaging in children. J Pediatr 2014; 164:1286-91.e2. [PMID: 24565425 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2014.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Revised: 11/15/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the association between Hispanic ethnicity and limited English proficiency (LEP) and the rates of appendiceal perforation and advanced radiologic imaging (computed tomography and ultrasound) in children with abdominal pain. STUDY DESIGN We performed a secondary analysis of a prospective, cross-sectional, multicenter study of children aged 3-18 years presenting with abdominal pain concerning for appendicitis between March 2009 and April 2010 at 10 tertiary care pediatric emergency departments in the US. Appendiceal perforation and advanced imaging rates were compared between ethnic and language proficiency groups using simple and multivariate regression models. RESULTS Of 2590 patients enrolled, 1001 (38%) had appendicitis, including 36% of non-Hispanics and 44% of Hispanics. In multivariate modeling, Hispanics with LEP had a significantly greater odds of appendiceal perforation (OR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.20-1.74). Hispanics with LEP with appendiceal perforation of moderate clinical severity were less likely to undergo advanced imaging compared with English-speaking non-Hispanics (OR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.43-0.95). CONCLUSION Hispanic ethnicity with LEP is an important risk factor for appendiceal perforation in pediatric patients brought to the emergency department with possible appendicitis. Among patients with moderate clinical severity, Hispanic ethnicity with LEP appears to be associated with lower imaging rates. This effect of English proficiency and Hispanic ethnicity warrants further investigation to understand and overcome barriers, which may lead to increased appendiceal perforation rates and differential diagnostic evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael N Levas
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI.
| | - Peter S Dayan
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY
| | - Manoj K Mittal
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Richard G Bachur
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Nanette C Dudley
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Lalit Bajaj
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO
| | - Charles G Macias
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Jonathan Bennett
- Department of Pediatrics, Alfred I. DuPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE
| | - M Denise Dowd
- Division of Pediatrics, University of Missouri, Kansas City Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO
| | - Avis J Thomas
- Division of Biostatistics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Anupam B Kharbanda
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital and Clinics of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
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Trent SA, Valley MA, Brookler K, Haukoos JS, Zerzan JT. Potential barriers associated with increased prevalence of perforated appendicitis in Colorado's pediatric Medicaid population. Am J Emerg Med 2013; 31:469-72. [PMID: 23347715 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2012.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2012] [Revised: 09/09/2012] [Accepted: 09/10/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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21
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C-reactive protein estimation does not improve accuracy in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in pediatric patients. Int J Surg 2009; 7:74-7. [PMID: 19070557 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2008.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2008] [Revised: 11/09/2008] [Accepted: 11/13/2008] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Diagnosis of acute appendicitis in children remains challenging, and the role of blood tests in the decision-making process is still unclear. We prospectively evaluated if routine inflammatory markers could contribute to exclude the presence of acute appendicitis in children. METHODS Preoperative white blood cell count (WBCC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were prospectively tested in children undergoing surgery for suspected appendicitis. Surgery was indicated on the basis of clinical findings and/or ultrasound scan, but WBCC and CRP values were ignored during the decision-making process. Sensitivity of individual markers and their combinations were assessed. RESULTS One hundred children (55 males) with a mean age of 9.34 years (SD, 3.54 years) had pathologically confirmed diagnosis of appendicitis. A perforated appendix was found in 23% of cases. Elevated WBCC alone had a sensitivity of 0.6 (confidence interval [CI], 0.506-0.694). Sensitivity of elevated CRP alone was 0.86 (CI, 0.926-0.793). Elevation of either WBCC or CRP or both had a sensitivity of 0.98 (CI, 1.0-0.953). CONCLUSIONS White blood cell count or CRP values alone do not appear to provide any useful additional information to the surgeon. However, the sensitivity of the 2 combined tests is extremely high, and normal values of both WBCC and CRP are very unlikely in pathologically confirmed appendicitis.
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Todd J, Armon C, Griggs A, Poole S, Berman S. Increased rates of morbidity, mortality, and charges for hospitalized children with public or no health insurance as compared with children with private insurance in Colorado and the United States. Pediatrics 2006; 118:577-85. [PMID: 16882810 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2006-0162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been a gradual decrease in the proportion of children covered by private health insurance in Colorado and the United States with a commensurate increase in those with public insurance or having no insurance which may impact access to care and outcomes. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this work was to determine whether children with public or no health insurance have differences in hospital admission rates, morbidity, mortality, and/or charges that might be improved if standards of primary care comparable to those of children with private insurance could be achieved. METHODS We conducted a retrospective comparison of hospitalization-related outcomes for children < 18 years of age in Colorado from 1995-2003 and in the United States in 2000. Population-based rates for hospital admission were determined stratified by age, race/ethnicity, disease grouping, and health insurance status. RESULTS Compared with those with private insurance, children in Colorado and the United States with public or no insurance have significantly higher rates of total hospital admission, as well as admission for chronic illness, asthma, diabetes, vaccine-preventable disease, psychiatric disease, and ruptured appendix. These children have higher mortality rates, higher severity of illness, are more likely to be admitted through the emergency department and have significantly higher hospital charges per insured child. Higher hospitalization rates occur in children who are nonwhite and/or Hispanic and those who are younger. If children with public or no health insurance in the United States in 2000 had the same hospitalization outcomes as children with private insurance, $5.3 billion in hospital charges could have been saved. CONCLUSIONS There is an opportunity to achieve improved health outcomes and decreased hospitalization costs for children with public or no health insurance if private insurance standards of health care could be achieved for all US children.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Todd
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado, USA.
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Deng CY, Huang N, Chou YJ, Hsu YJ, Chen LS, Chou P. Comparison of perforation risk among physicians, other medical professionals and general adults with acute appendicitis in Taiwan. Br J Surg 2006; 93:1297-302. [PMID: 16862611 DOI: 10.1002/bjs.5435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
This study aimed to compare the risk of appendiceal perforation among physicians, other medical professionals and general adults, when hospitalized for acute appendicitis.
Methods
National population-based data for 92 143 patients with acute appendicitis, aged 20 years or more, who underwent appendicectomy or drainage of an appendiceal abscess in Taiwan from 1996 to 2001 were analysed retrospectively. The outcome measure was appendiceal perforation. Patients were categorized as physicians (Western medical doctors), other medical professionals (such as dentists or nurses) or general adults (not medical professionals). Adjusted odds ratios and 95 per cent confidence intervals (c.i.) were estimated by multiple logistic regression.
Results
Multivariable analysis showed that appendiceal perforation was 0·67 (95 per cent c.i. 0·46 to 0·96) and 0·78 (95 per cent c.i. 0·62 to 0·99) times less likely in physicians and other medical professionals respectively than in general adults, after adjusting for patient and admitting hospital characteristics, and for calendar year.
Conclusion
The risk of perforation was significantly lower among physicians and other medical professionals than in general adults. Medical knowledge, familiarity with the healthcare system and better patient–doctor communication may have been contributory factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-Y Deng
- Department of Social Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Nwomeh BC, Chisolm DJ, Caniano DA, Kelleher KJ. Racial and socioeconomic disparity in perforated appendicitis among children: where is the problem? Pediatrics 2006; 117:870-5. [PMID: 16510669 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2005-1123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Significant racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities have been observed in the rates of perforated appendicitis among children, by using large administrative databases. This study evaluated whether these factors had an impact on the care of patients with appendicitis at a major children's hospital with a well-established, comprehensive, primary referral system. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed for all children between the ages of 2 and 20 years who were treated for appendicitis between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2003. Demographic variables included patient age, gender, race, insurance status, parental educational status, and income level. Coding data were used to identify patients with perforated appendicitis. The use of radiologic imaging was also analyzed. RESULTS During the 3-year period, 788 patients were treated for appendicitis. The racial distribution (white: 81%; black: 12%; other: 7%) was consistent with the demographic composition of the local population. The overall perforation rate was 25%, and the rate was significantly greater in the age group of <6 years, compared with older children. However, there were no significant differences in the perforation rate with respect to race, insurance status, educational level, or income status. Rates of radiologic imaging use were similar among all racial and socioeconomic groups. CONCLUSIONS Although racial and socioeconomic disparities in the rates of perforated appendicitis among children have been reported, we found no significant evidence for such inequality at our institution. This may reflect improved access, early diagnosis, and referral by primary care physicians in the community. Pooled national and multiple-state administrative databases have been used to highlight persistent disparities in health care. This study illustrates how single-institution data sources can be used to test a local hypothesis generated by national data, with surprisingly different results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedict C Nwomeh
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Columbus Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.
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Vital Jr PF, Martins JL. Estado atual do diagnóstico e tratamento da apendicite aguda na criança: avaliação de 300 casos. Rev Col Bras Cir 2005. [DOI: 10.1590/s0100-69912005000600005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o estado atual do diagnóstico e tratamento da apendicite aguda em crianças operadas em dois grandes hospitais quaternários da cidade de São Paulo, no período de 30 meses. MÉTODO: Nossa casuística constou de 300 crianças operadas por apendicite aguda no período de 1998 a 2000 (65% do sexo masculino e 35% feminino). Foram analisadas as variáveis idade, sexo, manifestações clínicas, tempo gasto para o diagnóstico, achados de exame físico, laboratoriais e cirúrgicos, antimicrobianos administrados, complicações pós-operatórias e tempo de internação. Utilizou-se o teste t de Student para avaliar duas variantes e Análise de Variâncias quando mais de duas. RESULTADOS: Diagnosticou-se inicialmente apendicite aguda em apenas 63% dos casos, tendo os 35% restantes, diagnóstico de abdome agudo cirúrgico. O tempo decorrido na realização do diagnóstico foi superior a 24 horas em 57,4% dos casos, denotando retardo importante na sua elaboração. Dor abdominal (85,3%) e irritação peritoneal (82%) em fossa ilíaca direita foram os sinais e sintomas mais freqüentes. Identificou-se leucocitose em 83% dos pacientes e leucocitúria em 39,7 %. Em 92,4% das radiografias simples de abdome encontramos imagens sugestivas de apendicite aguda. A ultra-sonografia abdominal foi diagnóstica em 80,1% dos casos. Utilizaram-se esquemas antimicrobianos especialmente para agentes gram-negativos e anaeróbicos. A principal complicação foi infecção da ferida cirúrgica, não tendo sido observada mortalidade no grupo. A média de internação foi de 5.2 e 6,0 dias para meninos e meninas respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO: Mesmo com melhor conhecimento sobre apendicite aguda, refinamento técnico, laboratorial, radiológico e uso de antibioticoterapia adequada, o tempo de para diagnóstico e a morbidade ainda se mantém alta na idade pediátrica.
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Berman S. Challenge of transforming our private and public pediatric health care systems to emphasize value. Pediatrics 2005; 115:1068-70. [PMID: 15805384 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2005-0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Berman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO 80218, USA.
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Smink DS, Fishman SJ, Kleinman K, Finkelstein JA. Effects of race, insurance status, and hospital volume on perforated appendicitis in children. Pediatrics 2005; 115:920-5. [PMID: 15805365 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2004-1363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous research suggests that perforated appendicitis is more common in Medicaid patients, but the roles of minority race and hospital volume remain largely unstudied. We sought to investigate the association of perforated appendicitis in children with minority race, insurance status, and hospital volume. METHODS We conducted a retrospective, population-based cohort study of 33184 children who had an International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision diagnosis code for acute appendicitis in The Kids' Inpatient Database, a pediatric database from 22 states in 1997. A multivariate logistic regression model was developed to determine patient and hospital characteristics predictive of perforated appendicitis. RESULTS Of 33184 children with acute appendicitis, 10777 (32.5%) were perforated. In multivariate analysis, black (odds ratio [OR]: 1.24; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.10-1.39) and Hispanic (OR: 1.19; 95% CI: 1.10-1.29) children were more likely to have perforated appendicitis than white children. Perforation was also more likely in Medicaid patients (OR: 1.30; 95% CI 1.22-1.39) compared with privately insured children. Annual hospital volume of cases of appendicitis was not significantly associated with perforation in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS Perforated appendicitis disproportionately affected both children of minority race and children insured by Medicaid. No effect of hospital volume was observed. To reduce this racial disparity, efforts should focus on the causes of delayed diagnosis and the treatment of appendicitis in children of minority race.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas S Smink
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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Kosloske AM, Love CL, Rohrer JE, Goldthorn JF, Lacey SR. The diagnosis of appendicitis in children: outcomes of a strategy based on pediatric surgical evaluation. Pediatrics 2004; 113:29-34. [PMID: 14702443 DOI: 10.1542/peds.113.1.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the accuracy of a protocol for diagnosis of appendicitis in children based on clinical evaluation by a pediatric surgeon with selective use of diagnostic imaging studies. We performed this study because 1) current reports in the medical, pediatric, emergency medical, and surgical literature advocate imaging, particularly computed tomography (CT), as the gold standard for diagnosis of appendicitis, and 2) the value of pediatric surgical evaluation early in the management of the child with possible appendicitis has rarely been emphasized. METHODS, DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Retrospective review of 356 children (mean age: 9.6 years; range: 1-18 years) referred to a regional pediatric surgical center for possible appendicitis from 1999 through 2001. INTERVENTIONS Initial pediatric surgical evaluation consisted of history, physical examination, white blood cell count, differential count, and urinalysis. Children diagnosed with appendicitis underwent appendectomy without additional studies; those with equivocal findings received intravenous fluids, rest, and reevaluation after 4 to 6 hours. Imaging was used selectively by the pediatric surgeon. OUTCOME MEASURES Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of the protocol based on final diagnoses; rate of appendiceal perforation; and rate of negative appendectomy. RESULTS Of 356 children evaluated for appendicitis, 220 (62%) had an appendectomy. Two-hundred nine (95%) had histologically proven appendicitis, and 11 (5%) had a normal appendix. Of the 209 children with appendicitis, 139 (66%) had acute appendicitis, 34 (16%) had advanced appendicitis without perforation, and 36 (17%) had advanced appendicitis with perforation. Appendectomy was performed after initial evaluation in 195 (89%) of the 220 children and after a period of supportive care and observation in 25 (11%) of 220. One hundred thirty-six children (38%) did not have an appendectomy and were discharged with other diagnoses. The sensitivity of this protocol was 99%, specificity was 92%, positive predictive value was 95%, and negative predictive value was 99%. The accuracy was 97% compared with an accuracy of 82% for ultrasound alone and 90% for CT scan alone. CONCLUSIONS These data show that a protocol based on clinical evaluation by a pediatric surgeon with selective use of imaging was highly accurate for the diagnosis of appendicitis in children. Low rates of negative appendectomy (5%) and perforation (17%) were achieved without the potential costs and radiation exposure of excess imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M Kosloske
- Department of Surgery, Texas Tech University, Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, USA.
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Pillai RK, Williams SV, Glick HA, Polsky D, Berlin JA, Lowe RA. Factors affecting decisions to seek treatment for sick children in Kerala, India. Soc Sci Med 2003; 57:783-90. [PMID: 12850106 DOI: 10.1016/s0277-9536(02)00448-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to measure the effects of social and economic variables, disease-related variables, and child gender on the decisions of parents in Kerala, India, to seek care for their children and on their choice of providers in the allopathic vs. the alternative system. A case-control analysis was done using data from the Kerala section of the 1996 Indian National Family Health Survey, a cross-sectional survey of a probability sample of households conducted by trained interviewers with a close-ended questionnaire. Of the 469 children who were eligible for this study because they had at least one common symptom suggestive of acute respiratory illness or diarrhea during the 2 weeks before the interview, 78 (17%) did not receive medical care, while the remaining 391 (83%) received medical care. Of the 391 children who received medical care, 342 (88%) received allopathic medical care, and 48 (12%) received alternative medical care. In multivariable analyses, parents chose not to seek medical care for their children significantly more often when the illness was mild, the child had a specific diagnosis, the mother had previously made fewer antenatal visits, and the family had a higher economic status. When parents sought medical care for their children, care was sought significantly more often in the alternative provider system when the child was a boy, the family lived in a rural area, and the family had a lower social class. We conclude that, in Kerala, disease severity and economic status predict whether children with acute respiratory infection or diarrhea are taken to medical providers. In contrast, most studies of this issue carried out in other populations have identified economic status as the primary predictor of medical system utilization. Also in Kerala, the gender of the child did not influence whether or not the child was taken for treatment but did influence whether care was sought in the alternative or the allopathic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajamohanan K Pillai
- CERTC, Sarayu, Kallampally, Medical College PO, Kerala 695011, Trivandrum, India.
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Stevens GD, Shi L. Racial and ethnic disparities in the primary care experiences of children: a review of the literature. Med Care Res Rev 2003; 60:3-30. [PMID: 12674018 DOI: 10.1177/1077558702250229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Substantial racial and ethnic disparities persist in children's health and use of health services in the United States. Although equitable access to primary care services is widely promoted as one of the most feasible remedies to reduce health disparities, there has only recently been an effort to assess its quality, particularly for children. Racial and socioeconomic differences in access to care have been previously well documented, but recent research has begun to elucidate differences in more qualitative experiences in the receipt of primary care. This article presents a synthesis and critique of the existing research according to the core attributes of primary care: first-contact care, longitudinality, comprehensiveness, and coordination. Finally, the article proposes an agenda for further research into the pathways by which racial and ethnic disparities in primary care exist.
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Alexander F, Magnuson D, DiFiore J, Jirousek K, Secic M. Specialty versus generalist care of children with appendicitis: an outcome comparison. J Pediatr Surg 2001; 36:1510-3. [PMID: 11584398 DOI: 10.1053/jpsu.2001.27033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Some Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO) limit access of their members to specialists to lower costs. The purpose of this study is to determine whether this policy affects the outcome of children with appendicitis. METHODS At a large academic medical center, children 17 years or younger with appendicitis were treated either by an HMO Adult General Surgical Service (group A) or a Pediatric Surgical Service (group B). Board certified pediatric surgeons were not available on the HMO surgical service. Anesthesia, surgical residents, nursing, and ancillary support services were identical in both groups. Study parameters included imaging tests performed, operation type, complications, readmissions, and length of stay. Results were analyzed using chi(2) and Fischer's Exact tests. RESULTS One-hundred seventy-five consecutive children underwent appendectomy, 96 in group A and 79 in group B. In patients with simple acute appendicitis, there was no significant difference between group A and group B for complications, readmissions, second operation, or length of stay. In patients with gangrenous or perforated appendicitis there was a significant difference between group A and group B for type of operation (laparoscopic appendectomy, group A, 4 of 27 v. group B, 0 of 34; P =.04); complications (group A, 9 of 27 v. group B, 3 of 34; P =.025); readmissions (group A, 6 of 27 v. group B, 0 of 34; P =.001); second operation (group A, 6 of 27 v. group B, 2 of 34; P =.001); and mean total length of stay in days (group A, 8.6 of 27 v. group B, 5.4 of 34; P =.05). CONCLUSIONS Children with significantly perforated appendicitis have lower complication rates and shorter lengths of hospital stay when treated by pediatric surgeons as compared with HMO adult general surgeons.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Alexander
- Cleveland Clinic Foundation, The Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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Bratton SL, Haberkern CM, Waldhausen JH, Sawin RS, Allison JW. Intussusception: hospital size and risk of surgery. Pediatrics 2001; 107:299-303. [PMID: 11158462 DOI: 10.1542/peds.107.2.299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether the risk of operative management of children with intussusception varies by hospital pediatric caseload. DESIGN A cohort of all children with intussusception in Washington State from 1987 through 1996. SETTING All hospitals in Washington State. METHODS Five hundred seventy children with a hospital discharge diagnosis of intussusception were identified. Sixty-two were excluded because of missing data. Procedure codes for operative management and radiologic management were also identified. RESULTS Fifty-three percent of the children had operative reduction and 20% had resection of bowel. Children with operative reduction did not differ from those with nonoperative care by median age or gender; however, children with operative care were significantly more likely to receive care in hospitals with smaller pediatric caseloads and to have a coexisting condition associated with intussusception. Sixty-four percent of children who received care in a large children's hospital had nonoperative reduction, compared with 36% of children who received care in hospitals with 0 to 3000 annual pediatric admissions and 24% of children who had care in hospitals with 3000 to 10 000 annual pediatric admissions. Median length of stay and charges were significantly less in the large children's hospital, compared with other centers. CONCLUSIONS Children who received care for intussusception in a large children's hospital had decreased risk of operative care, shorter length of stay, and lower hospital charges compared with children who received care in hospitals with smaller pediatric caseloads.
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Affiliation(s)
- S L Bratton
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health Sciences University and Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Portland, Oregon, USA.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the incidence of appendiceal perforation (AP) among children with acute appendicitis (AA) and determine factors associated with AP. DESIGN Retrospective chart review. SETTING Emergency department (ED) of Primary Children's Medical Center (PCMC). PATIENTS 131 children less than 17 years of age with AA diagnosed in the PCMC ED. RESULTS The overall rate of AP was 47%. One hundred eleven (85%) children with AA were correctly diagnosed on their first ED visit. Patients with AP had a significantly (P < 0.05) lower median age (8.0 vs 11.0 years), longer duration of illness (3.0 vs 1.4 days), greater incidence of vomiting and fever by history (91% vs 69% and 83% vs 58%, respectively), higher median temperatures (39.0 degrees vs 38.3 degrees C), and higher proportions of leukocyte (WBC) band forms (14% vs 5%). Patients with AP did not differ from those without AP with respect to total WBC count, hour of arrival, or number of ED visits. CONCLUSIONS The rate of AP among pediatric patients with AA is greater among younger children and is associated with vomiting, prolonged illness, and higher body temperatures. Unexpectedly, patients with AP did not have higher total WBC values, more frequent late night arrivals, a longer time interval prior to surgery, or more ED visits prior to diagnosis. These findings suggest that efforts to decrease the rate of AP should be directed toward heightening awareness among primary care physicians regarding the high rate of AP in children, with an emphasis on early ED and surgical referral.
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Affiliation(s)
- D S Nelson
- Primary Children's Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City 84113, USA.
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35
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Bratton SL, Haberkern CM, Waldhausen JH. Acute appendicitis risks of complications: age and Medicaid insurance. Pediatrics 2000; 106:75-8. [PMID: 10878152 DOI: 10.1542/peds.106.1.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the epidemiology of acute appendicitis in children from Washington State, and to determine important risk factors for complications. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING All children (<17 years old) treated in Washington State who were identified by hospital discharge diagnosis codes from 1987 through 1996. METHODS The hospital discharge data were reviewed for all children with a primary diagnosis code for acute appendicitis. Complicated disease was defined as perforation or abscess formation. RESULTS Young children (0-4 years old) had the lowest annual incidence of acute appendicitis, but they had a 5-fold increased risk of complicated disease (odds ratio: 4.9; 95% confidence interval: 4.0-5.9), compared with teenagers. Children with Medicaid insurance had a 1.3-fold increased risk of complicated disease, compared with children with commercial insurance (odds ratio: 1.3: 95% confidence interval: 1.2-1.4). Children with Medicaid insurance had significantly longer average length of stay (4.0+/-3.7 days) than all other payers (commercial insurance: 3.3+/-4.0 days; health maintenance organization: 3.5+/-3.1 days; and self-insured: 3.7+/-5.8 days). CONCLUSIONS Very young children had the greatest risk of complicated disease. Children with Medicaid insurance had increased risk of complicated disease, compared with children with commercial health insurance and longer length of stay. Additional studies are needed to evaluate barriers to care for children with Medicaid insurance.
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Affiliation(s)
- S L Bratton
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, USA.
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Rothrock SG, Pagane J. Acute appendicitis in children: emergency department diagnosis and management. Ann Emerg Med 2000; 36:39-51. [PMID: 10874234 DOI: 10.1067/mem.2000.105658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Early diagnosis of appendicitis in infants and children can prevent perforation, abscess formation, and postoperative complications, and can decrease cost by shortening hospitalizations. This article reviews the epidemiology, physiology, and age-specific clinical presentation of childhood appendicitis. The accuracy of diagnostic adjuncts is reviewed, as are strategies for avoiding misdiagnosis and improving emergency department evaluation and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- S G Rothrock
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando, FL 32806, USA
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Pittman-Waller VA, Myers JG, Stewart RM, Dent DL, Page CP, Gray GA, Pruitt BA, Root HD. Appendicitis: Why So Complicated? Analysis of 5755 Consecutive Appendectomies. Am Surg 2000. [DOI: 10.1177/000313480006600605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A perceived high rate of complicated (gangrenous or perforated) appendicitis, despite advances in laboratory and radiographic diagnostic modalities, prompted a review of our experience with appendicitis followed by a prospective analysis that examined the time course from presentation to definitive treatment in 218 consecutive patients. In 5755 appendectomies, our overall rate of complicated appendicitis was 32 per cent; higher in males, in the young, and in the elderly; and relatively stable over each year reviewed. Prospectively, we determined that of the various time intervals, the time from the onset of symptoms to first seeking medical attention is the only significant predictor of complicated appendicitis (39.8 vs 16.5 hours for acute appendicitis). On the other hand, the time from surgical evaluation to operative intervention was significantly shorter for complicated appendicitis (3.8 vs 4.7 hours for acute appendicitis). The high rate of complicated appendicitis with its subsequent sequelae of increased morbidity and resource expenditure is primarily the direct result of patient delay in seeking medical attention and not the result of diagnostic dilemma or surgical delay. Public education, specifically targeting those groups at risk, may provide a substantial and significant solution to the complicated appendix.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John G. Myers
- Department of General Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas
| | - Ronald M. Stewart
- Department of General Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas
| | - Daniel L. Dent
- Department of General Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas
| | - Carey P. Page
- Department of General Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas
| | - Gina A. Gray
- Department of General Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas
| | - Basil A. Pruitt
- Department of General Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas
| | - Harlan D. Root
- Department of General Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas
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Reynolds SL. Diagnosing pediatric appendicitis. CLINICAL PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 1999. [DOI: 10.1016/s1522-8401(99)90005-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Sullivan K. Managed care plan performance since 1980: another look at 2 literature reviews. Am J Public Health 1999; 89:1003-8. [PMID: 10394307 PMCID: PMC1508823 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.89.7.1003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This article compares the quality of care provided by managed care plans (MCPs) and indemnity (or fee-for-service [FFS]) plans since 1980. METHODS The 44 studies examined are the studies that Miller and Luft cited in their 1994 and 1997 reviews of the literature comparing MCPs with FFS plans. These studies are examined to determine how well they met Miller and Luft's selection criteria and, in addition, whether they controlled for differences in the breadth of insurance coverage. RESULTS The 44 studies generated 57 observations. MCPs scored better than FFS plans on 10 of these, equally well on 25, and worse on 22. However, only 44 of these observations met the Miller-Luft criteria plus the coverage criterion. Four of these indicated that MCP care was better, 19 that MCP and FFS care were equivalent, and 21 that MCP care was worse. CONCLUSIONS The small body of reliable studies comparing the quality of MCP care with that of FFS care indicates that the quality of care provided by MCPs tends to be equal or inferior to that provided by FFS plans.
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Abstract
Ultrasonography, CT scanning, and prolonged observation may improve diagnostic accuracy of appendicitis in children with atypical presentations. This article describes diagnostic pitfalls, including early presentation and abnormal appendiceal location.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Joffe
- Emergency Department, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Buckley RG, Distefan J, Gubler KD, Slymen D. The risk of appendiceal rupture based on hospital admission source. Acad Emerg Med 1999; 6:596-601. [PMID: 10386676 DOI: 10.1111/j.1553-2712.1999.tb00412.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether admission source is a potential risk factor for appendiceal rupture. METHODS Administrative data were obtained from the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development for all patients in San Diego County with the primary diagnosis of appendicitis during 1993. The appendiceal rupture ratio was defined as those coded as ruptured (ICD-9-CM codes 540.0 and 540.1) divided by both ruptured and non-ruptured cases (540.9). The odds ratio of appendiceal rupture from routine outpatient office or clinic venues vs those admitted through the ED were calculated using multivariate logistic regression analysis to adjust for age, sex, race, comorbidity, insurance status, and home address to hospital proximity. RESULTS There were a total of 1,906 patients, of whom 663 (34.8%) had appendiceal ruptures. Of the 1,360 (71.4%) admitted from the ED, 422 (31.0%) had ruptures, compared with 211 (43.3%) of the 487 admitted from outpatient sources (p < 0.0001). Patients with appendicitis directly admitted from outpatient sources were more likely to be complicated by appendiceal rupture than were those admitted through the hospital ED (adjusted odds ratio 1.62, 95% CI = 1.28 to 2.05, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Patients with appendicitis admitted from outpatient sources are more likely to have appendiceal rupture than are those admitted from the ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- R G Buckley
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Naval Medical Center San Diego, CA, USA.
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Rice HE, Arbesman M, Martin DJ, Brown RL, Gollin G, Gilbert JC, Caty MG, Glick PL, Azizkhan RG. Does early ultrasonography affect management of pediatric appendicitis? A prospective analysis. J Pediatr Surg 1999; 34:754-8; discussion 758-9. [PMID: 10359177 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-3468(99)90369-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Appendicitis remains a difficult diagnosis in children. Ultrasonography is increasingly used for the diagnosis of appendicitis, although the proper clinical role for this test remains unclear. METHODS To evaluate the clinical utility of ultrasonography in appendicitis, the authors analyzed prospectively all children evaluated for possible appendicitis from January 1 through December 31, 1997. Children with a high clinical suspicion of appendicitis were referred for surgery (n = 122). Children with equivocal findings of appendicitis were referred for early ultrasonography (EUS) and formed the study cohort (n = 103). An initial management plan was made to operate or observe each patient, and a risk of appendicitis (doubtful, possible, probable) was assigned by a pediatric surgery fellow. EUS was then performed, and its effect on management was assessed. RESULTS Using clinical judgment to operate at initial presentation, the sensitivity was 38% and specificity was 95%. Using EUS alone, the sensitivity was 87% and specificity was 88%. The management of 30 of 103 patients (30%) was changed after EUS, including a decision to operate in 28 patients and a decision not to operate in two patients. CONCLUSIONS EUS appears to have substantial clinical utility in children with equivocal findings of appendicitis, and its use complements the clinical management. The use of EUS can improve patient care and reduce hospital resource utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- H E Rice
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Buffalo, The State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine, USA
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Wong SW, Haxhimolla H, Grieve DA, Fisher R, Keogh G. Insurance and the risk of ruptured appendix in the adult. THE AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF SURGERY 1999; 69:31-3. [PMID: 9932917 DOI: 10.1046/j.1440-1622.1999.01482.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disparities in medical care related to the insurance status of patients have been reported. A retrospective analysis was performed to examine the insurance-related differences in the risk of appendiceal perforation in the Prince of Wales Hospital (POWH), New South Wales. METHODS Computerized data of 1179 patient years who had a diagnosis of appendicitis and were admitted to the POWH over the preceding 10 years were examined. The outcome measure was appendiceal perforation. Patient variables examined were insurance status, sex, age, and socio-economic status (SES). Three hundred patients over the same period were identified who had an appendicectomy but not appendicitis. Multiple logistic regression and Fisher's exact test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS The overall perforation rate in 1179 patients was 17%. The only factor that was related to an increased risk of perforation was age over 50 years (odds ratio (OR) 1.57; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04-2.53). Sex, insurance status or SES were not associated with a higher risk of perforation. The overall rate of negative appendicectomy was 20% (300 of 1479 patients), and the rate was higher in the uninsured patients (22 vs 17%, P = 0.014, Fisher's exact test). CONCLUSIONS Lack of health insurance was not associated with an increased incidence of appendiceal perforation at the POWH. Age over 50 years was identified as the only risk factor for appendiceal perforation. The lower negative appendicectomy rate in the insured group may be because of better diagnostic ability of consultants compared to registrars.
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Affiliation(s)
- S W Wong
- Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
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Abstract
This article focuses on salient points in the evaluation of abdominal pain in infants and children. Specifically, the authors address appendicitis and abdominal pain associated with either vomiting, constipation, or gastrointestinal bleeding. A discussion of common abdominal masses, urologic, and gynecologic problems, and considerations in the evaluation of immunologically suppressed or neurologically impaired children, and children with recurrent abdominal pain is also presented. The authors establish logical, focused approaches to the initial evaluation and management of abdominal pain and suggest criteria for timely surgical referral.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Irish
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Buffalo, New York, USA
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Wilcox RT, Traverso LW. Have the evaluation and treatment of acute appendicitis changed with new technology? Surg Clin North Am 1997; 77:1355-70. [PMID: 9431344 DOI: 10.1016/s0039-6109(05)70622-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The evaluation and treatment of acute appendicitis remain essentially unchanged for the majority of individuals who present with this disease. Although advancements have been made in laboratory analysis as well as imaging via ultrasonography and CT, nothing can replace careful evaluation by an experienced surgeon. Appendicitis remains a diagnosis based primarily on history and physical examination, with further studies being useful adjuncts in atypical cases--more likely to occur in the very young or very old and most cost effective when ordered by the surgical consultant. Improvement in outcomes has not been demonstrated with routine use of "new technology." The treatment of acute appendicitis continues to be early surgical intervention. Although laparoscopic appendectomy may offer advantages in women of childbearing age and in obese individuals, its routine use is not indicated based upon current reports in the literature. Debate continues regarding the optimal treatment of the periappendiceal mass. Further clinical research regarding early operation compared with intravenous antibiotics with or without drainage, as well as comparison of outcomes with or without interval appendectomy, needs to be performed. With continued research and definition of populations likely to benefit from advances in technology, a more focused application will be possible. This will lead to improved outcomes and decreased overall cost. The issue of delay in treatment, a major determinant of morbidity associated with appendicitis, warrants further evaluation and should be addressed on a population-specific basis. Emphasis should remain on the early clinical diagnosis of acute appendicitis with its associated low morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- R T Wilcox
- Department of General Surgery, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
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