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Adams SE, Perera MRS, Fung S, Maxton J, Karpelowsky J. Non-operative management of uncomplicated appendicitis in children: a randomized, controlled, non-inferiority study evaluating safety and efficacy. ANZ J Surg 2024. [PMID: 38873960 DOI: 10.1111/ans.19119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Appendicitis is the commonest paediatric surgical emergency. Adult studies suggest non-operative management (NOM) may have a place in care. There have been no adequately powered randomized controlled trials in children. OBJECTIVE to determine the safety and efficacy of NOM for paediatric simple appendicitis. METHODS A non-inferiority randomized controlled trial was conducted comparing operative (OM) to NOM of SA in children aged five-15 years. Primary outcome was treatment success (no unplanned or unnecessary operation, or complication) at 30 days and 12 months, with a non-inferiority margin of 15%. (anzctr.org.au: ACTRN12616000788471). RESULTS From 11 June 2016 to 30 November 2020, 222 children were randomized: 94 (42.34%) to OM and 128 (57.66%) to NOM. Non-inferiority of NOM was not demonstrated at either time point, with 45.67% of NOM patients subsequently undergoing operation. There was no significant difference in complications. CONCLUSIONS While noninferiority was not shown, NOM was safe, with no difference in adverse outcomes between the two groups. Further research to refine the place of NOM of simple appendicitis in children is required, including nuanced patient selection, longer term evaluation, the place of choice, and the acceptability of the treatment for children and their carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Elizabeth Adams
- Toby Bowring Department of Paediatric Surgery, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Meegodage Roshell Swindri Perera
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Saskia Fung
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jordon Maxton
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathan Karpelowsky
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Becker G, Fuhrer AE, Kremer K, Hochschild A, Kammar H, Sukhotnik I. Age as an Exclusion Criterion for Nonoperative Management in Simple Acute Appendicitis in Children. Eur J Pediatr Surg 2024; 34:102-106. [PMID: 37591255 DOI: 10.1055/a-2155-7642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nonoperative management (NOM) for simple acute appendicitis (SAA) is an acceptable mode of treatment in healthy children. Previous studies of NOM routinely excluded young children (< 5 years); however, the effect of age on NOM failure has not been directly assessed. Efficiency of NOM in young adults is questionable. Therefore, adolescents may also be at greater risk of NOM failure. Our aim was to investigate the effect of age on NOM failure. METHODS This is a retrospective analysis of children with SAA who received NOM between January 1, 2019, and June 30, 2021, at our institution. NOM failure was defined by subsequent appendectomy. Age was assessed as a continuous variable, and we also compared different age subgroups. RESULTS In this study, 151 children were included (60% male), mean age 11.2 ± 3.2 years (range: 5-17). Overall, 66 children (44%) failed NOM, 90% of them within the first year (median 7 weeks). Ten percent of the cohort were younger than 6 years of age and 33% of them failed NOM (p = 0.39). Per 1 year increase in age, the odds of NOM failure increased by 12% (p = 0.027). Children over 14 years of age had 2.46 times higher odds to fail NOM (p = 0.03). These higher odds remained after adjusting for appendiceal diameter and appendicolith. Linear regression showed a decrease by a factor of 12 at the time of NOM failure with every 1-year increase in age (β = -12, p = 0.09). CONCLUSION The risk of NOM failure in children increases with age; therefore, age should be considered when deciding on the optimal management of SAA, especially in adolescents. Effectiveness of NOM in children younger than 6 years is noninferior to older children and therefore should not be excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gal Becker
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dana Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Audelia Eshel Fuhrer
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dana Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Keren Kremer
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dana Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Annabella Hochschild
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dana Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Haguy Kammar
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dana Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Igor Sukhotnik
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dana Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Chorozoglou M, Reading I, Eaton S, Naqvi S, Pardy C, Sloan K, Major C, Demellweek N, Hall NJ. Assessing micro- vs macro-costing approaches for treating appendicitis in children with appendicectomy or non-operatively. Qual Life Res 2023; 32:2987-2999. [PMID: 37286916 PMCID: PMC10473981 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-023-03442-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We conducted a health economic sub-study within a feasibility RCT comparing a non-operative treatment pathway as an alternative to appendicectomy for the treatment of uncomplicated acute appendicitis in children. The objectives were to understand and assess data collection tools and methods and to determine indicative costs and benefits assessing the feasibility of conducting a full economic evaluation within the definitive trial. METHODS We compared different methods of estimating treatment costs including micro-costing, hospital administrative data (PLICS) and health system (NHS) reference costs. We compared two different HRQoL instruments (CHU-9D and EQ-5D-5L) in terms of data completeness and sensitivity to change over time, including potential ceiling effects. We also explored how the timing of data collection and duration of the analysis could affect QALYs (Quality Adjusted Life Years) and the results of the cost-utility analysis (CUA) within the future RCT. RESULTS Using a micro-costing approach, the total per treatment costs were in alignment with hospital administrative data (PLICS). Average health system reference cost data (macro-costing using NHS costs) could potentially underestimate these treatment costs, particularly for non-operative treatment. Costs incurred following hospital discharge in the primary care setting were minimal, and limited family borne costs were reported by parents/carers. While both HRQoL instruments performed relatively well, our results highlight the problem of ceiling effect and the importance of the timing of data collection and the duration of the analysis in any future assessment using QALYs and CUA. CONCLUSIONS We highlighted the importance of obtaining accurate individual-patient cost data when conducting economic evaluations. Our results suggest that timing of data collection and duration of the assessment are important considerations when evaluating cost-effectiveness and reporting cost per QALY. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN15830435.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Isabel Reading
- School of Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Simon Eaton
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Shehryer Naqvi
- St George’s University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Caroline Pardy
- St George’s University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Keren Sloan
- Southampton Children’s Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | | | | | - Nigel J. Hall
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Southampton Children’s Hospital, Southampton, UK
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Yu D, Bio LL. Shedding Light on Amoxicillin, Amoxicillin-clavulanate, and Cephalexin Dosing in Children from a Pharmacist's Perspective. J Pediatric Infect Dis Soc 2022; 11:594-602. [PMID: 36112500 DOI: 10.1093/jpids/piac105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Selection of an antibiotic and dosing regimen requires consideration of multiple factors including microbiological data, site of infection, pharmacokinetics, and how it relates to the pharmacodynamic target. Given the multiple dosage regimens of amoxicillin with/without clavulanate and cephalexin, we review the principles of dose selection from a pharmacist's perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Laura L Bio
- Department of Pharmacy, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, California, USA
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Bălănescu R, Bălănescu L, Kadar AM, Enache T, Moga A. The Management of Pediatric Acute Appendicitis-Survey among Pediatric Surgeons in Romania. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58121737. [PMID: 36556939 PMCID: PMC9781247 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58121737] [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: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: To assess the current practice pattern in the management of pediatric acute appendicitis in Romania. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was emailed to all the members of the Romanian Society of Pediatric Surgery between June-July 2022. Results: 118 answers were received, 79.7% responses being from permanent staff members. In the diagnosis of appendicitis, complete blood count, C-reactive protein and abdominal ultrasound are the most commonly used diagnostic tools, while appendicitis scores are not widely used (25% of surgeons). In the case of simple appendicitis, 49.2% of surgeons prefer the conservative approach-oral/intravenous antibiotics. Those who choose the operative approach begin preoperative antibiotics in 56.7% of patients. In case of a stable patient, only 16.7% of surgeons will operate during the night. Laparoscopic approach is chosen by 51.7% of surgeons. In the case of a complicated appendicitis, 92.4% of surgeons will perform the appendectomy, prescribing preoperative antibiotics in 94% of the cases and continuing the therapy postoperatively in 98.2%. Laparoscopic approach is used by 28.8% of surgeons in case of complicated appendicitis. In presence of appendicular mass, 80% prefer a conservative approach with a delayed appendectomy within 6 months. Appendicular abscesses are managed operatively in 82.2% of the cases. The appendix is sent for histological analysis by 95.8% of surgeons. If the peritoneal cavity is contaminated, 95% of the respondents will take a sample for microbiological analysis, 71% will always place a drainage and 44% will always irrigate (71.9%-saline). Conclusions: Clearly, there seems to be a lack of consensus regarding several aspects of the management of acute appendicitis in children. In addition, minimally invasive surgery is not as widely used as reported, despite literature support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radu Bălănescu
- Pediatric Surgery Department, “Grigore Alexandrescu” Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children, 011743 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Laura Bălănescu
- Pediatric Surgery Department, “Grigore Alexandrescu” Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children, 011743 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-722984347
| | - Anna Maria Kadar
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Pediatric Surgery Department, “M.S. Curie” Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children, 077120 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Tudor Enache
- Pediatric Surgery Department, “Grigore Alexandrescu” Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children, 011743 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Moga
- Pediatric Surgery Department, “Grigore Alexandrescu” Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children, 011743 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
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Parental Knowledge of Appendicitis and Preference for Operative or Non-Operative Treatment at a United Kingdom Children’s Hospital. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9081191. [PMID: 36010083 PMCID: PMC9406866 DOI: 10.3390/children9081191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Appendicitis is a common cause of abdominal pain in children, and is the most common reason for children to undergo emergency abdominal surgery. To guide our research program in this field, we aimed to determine parental understanding with regard to appendicitis and its treatment. We also wished to assess parental preference for non-operative or surgical treatment of children with uncomplicated appendicitis. We asked parents attending a children’s outpatient clinic to complete a brief questionnaire that was interspersed with educational content to rectify any knowledge gaps. A total of 396 parents (of 414 approached) agreed to participate. There were gaps in parental knowledge, including not knowing where the appendix is located (one-third of respondents), not knowing what appendicitis is (40% of respondents), and underestimating the incidence of appendicitis. Parents typically overestimated the risks of complications and dying from both uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis. There was no influence of gender, age, or previous experience of appendicitis on these findings. When presented with the scenario of equal effectiveness of non-operative treatment and surgery for uncomplicated appendicitis, 59% of respondents expressed a preference for non-operative treatment over surgery, while 21% expressed a preference for surgery (20% expressed no preference). These findings are important for clinicians and researchers when discussing appendicitis and treatment options with families, and justify ongoing research into the comparative effectiveness of non-operative treatment and surgery.
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Nepomuceno H, Pearson EG. Nonoperative management of appendicitis in children. Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 6:47. [PMID: 34423168 DOI: 10.21037/tgh-20-191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Appendicitis is a common condition in childhood and adolescence that frequently requires urgent surgical intervention. For almost two centuries appendicitis has been recognized as a medical problem with a surgical solution. Currently the appendix can be removed with a minimally invasive approach, low anesthetic and surgical risk, and swift hospital discharge. Despite these advances, surgery and anesthesia have associated risks including postoperative infection, bleeding, hernia and organ injury among others. In addition, surgery requires time off of school and work to recover and associated healthcare costs can be significant. In both adult and pediatric populations, quality data suggesting a nonoperative approach is suggesting a change to the traditional surgical paradigm. Adults studies have demonstrated both safety and efficacy in the nonoperative management of acute appendicitis. In selected children with uncomplicated appendicitis, initial nonoperative management has been shown to be safe with fewer complications, fewer disability days and less healthcare costs while avoiding the risks inherent to surgery. Ongoing randomized controlled clinical trials in both the United States and Europe seek to further demonstrate the safety of nonoperative management and assist physicians with educating patients about the risk profile of their treatment decision. In complicated appendicitis presenting with abscess or acute appendiceal phlegmon, an initial nonoperative strategy with or without abscess drainage followed by interval appendectomy is the current state of the art though the utility of interval appendectomy is questioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Nepomuceno
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Sunrise Children's Hospital, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Erik G Pearson
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Sunrise Children's Hospital, Las Vegas, NV, USA
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Hall NJ, Eaton S, Sherratt FC, Reading I, Walker E, Chorozoglou M, Beasant L, Wood W, Stanton M, Corbett H, Rex D, Hutchings N, Dixon E, Grist S, Crawley EM, Young B, Blazeby JM. CONservative TReatment of Appendicitis in Children: a randomised controlled feasibility Trial (CONTRACT). Arch Dis Child 2021; 106:764-773. [PMID: 33441315 PMCID: PMC8311091 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2020-320746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish the feasibility of a multicentre randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a non-operative treatment pathway compared with appendicectomy in children with uncomplicated acute appendicitis. DESIGN Feasibility randomised controlled trial with embedded qualitative study to inform recruiter training to optimise recruitment and the design of a future definitive trial. SETTING Three specialist paediatric surgery centres in the UK. PATIENTS Children (aged 4-15 years) with a clinical diagnosis of uncomplicated acute appendicitis. INTERVENTIONS Appendicectomy or a non-operative treatment pathway (comprising broad-spectrum antibiotics and active observation). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcome measure was the proportion of eligible patients recruited. Secondary outcomes evaluated adherence to interventions, data collection during follow-up, safety of treatment pathways and clinical course. RESULTS Fifty per cent of eligible participants (95% CI 40 to 59) approached about the trial agreed to participate and were randomised. Repeated bespoke recruiter training was associated with an increase in recruitment rate over the course of the trial from 38% to 72%. There was high acceptance of randomisation, good patient and surgeon adherence to trial procedures and satisfactory completion of follow-up. Although more participants had perforated appendicitis than had been anticipated, treatment pathways were found to be safe and adverse event profiles acceptable. CONCLUSION Recruitment to a randomised controlled trial examining the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a non-operative treatment pathway compared with appendicectomy for the treatment of uncomplicated acute appendicitis in children is feasible. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN15830435.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel J Hall
- University Surgery Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Southampton Children's Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Simon Eaton
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Frances C Sherratt
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Isabel Reading
- Primary Care, Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Erin Walker
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Maria Chorozoglou
- Southampton Health Technology Assessment Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Lucy Beasant
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Wendy Wood
- National Institute of Health Research (NIHR), Research Design Service South Central, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Michael Stanton
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Southampton Children's Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Harriet Corbett
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Alder Hey Children's NHS foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Dean Rex
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Natalie Hutchings
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Elizabeth Dixon
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Simon Grist
- Patient and Public Involvement Representative, Southampton, UK
| | - Esther M Crawley
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Bridget Young
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Jane M Blazeby
- Centre for Surgical Research and NIHR Bristol Biomedical Research Centre, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Fuhrer AE, Sukhotnik I, Ben-Shahar Y, Weinberg M, Koppelmann T. Predictive Value of Alvarado Score and Pediatric Appendicitis Score in the Success of Nonoperative Management for Simple Acute Appendicitis in Children. Eur J Pediatr Surg 2021; 31:95-101. [PMID: 33080628 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1718406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During the past decade, nonoperative management (NOM) for simple acute appendicitis (SAA) in children has been proven safe with noninferior complications rate. The aim of this study was to examine Alvarado score and pediatric appendicitis score (PAS) together with other factors in predicting failure of NOM in children presenting with SAA. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients aged 5 to 18 years admitted to our department between 2017 and 2019 diagnosed with SAA were given a choice between surgical management and NOM. We divided the NOM patients into two groups: successful treatment and failed NOM, comparing their files for Alvarado score and PAS and other clinical and demographic factors, with a mean follow-up of 7 months. Failure was determined as need for appendectomy following conservative treatment due to any reason. RESULTS A total of 85 patients answered criteria and chose NOM. Overall failure rate was 32.9%. We found no difference in the mean Alvarado score and PAS as well as in each component of both scores between success and failed NOM groups. However, when using the risk classification of the scores, we found a significant correlation between high-risk Alvarado score and failed NOM. After adjusting for age, gender, duration of symptoms, diagnosis of tip appendicitis, and presence of appendicolith, the odds of failure were four times higher among high-risk Alvarado group. CONCLUSION Alvarado score of 7 or higher, older age, and diagnosis of an appendicolith on imaging are possible predictors for failure of NOM for SAA in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audelia Eshel Fuhrer
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Igor Sukhotnik
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yoav Ben-Shahar
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Mark Weinberg
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tal Koppelmann
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Hall NJ, Sherratt FC, Eaton S, Reading I, Walker E, Chorozoglou M, Beasant L, Wood W, Stanton M, Corbett HJ, Rex D, Hutchings N, Dixon E, Grist S, Hoff WV, Crawley E, Blazeby J, Young B. Conservative treatment for uncomplicated appendicitis in children: the CONTRACT feasibility study, including feasibility RCT. Health Technol Assess 2021; 25:1-192. [PMID: 33630732 PMCID: PMC7958256 DOI: 10.3310/hta25100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although non-operative treatment is known to be effective for the treatment of uncomplicated acute appendicitis in children, randomised trial data comparing important outcomes of non-operative treatment with those of appendicectomy are lacking. OBJECTIVES The objectives were to ascertain the feasibility of conducting a multicentre randomised controlled trial comparing the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a non-operative treatment pathway with appendicectomy for the treatment of uncomplicated acute appendicitis in children. DESIGN This was a mixed-methods study, which included a feasibility randomised controlled trial, embedded and parallel qualitative and survey studies, a parallel health economic feasibility study and the development of a core outcome set. SETTING This study was set in three specialist NHS paediatric surgical units in England. PARTICIPANTS Children (aged 4-15 years) clinically diagnosed with uncomplicated acute appendicitis participated in the feasibility randomised controlled trial. Children, their families, recruiting clinicians and other health-care professionals involved in caring for children with appendicitis took part in the qualitative study. UK specialist paediatric surgeons took part in the survey. Specialist paediatric surgeons, adult general surgeons who treat children, and children and young people who previously had appendicitis, along with their families, took part in the development of the core outcome set. INTERVENTIONS Participants in the feasibility randomised controlled trial were randomised to a non-operative treatment pathway (broad-spectrum antibiotics and active observation) or appendicectomy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome measure was the proportion of eligible patients recruited to the feasibility trial. DATA SOURCES Data were sourced from NHS case notes, questionnaire responses, transcribed audio-recordings of recruitment discussions and qualitative interviews. RESULTS Overall, 50% (95% confidence interval 40% to 59%) of 115 eligible patients approached about the trial agreed to participate and were randomised. There was high acceptance of randomisation and good adherence to trial procedures and follow-up (follow-up rates of 89%, 85% and 85% at 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months, respectively). More participants had perforated appendicitis than had been anticipated. Qualitative work enabled us to communicate about the trial effectively with patients and families, to design and deliver bespoke training to optimise recruitment and to understand how to optimise the design and delivery of a future trial. The health economic study indicated that the main cost drivers are the ward stay cost and the cost of the operation; it has also informed quality-of-life assessment methods for future work. A core outcome set for the treatment of uncomplicated acute appendicitis in children and young people was developed, containing 14 outcomes. There is adequate surgeon interest to justify proceeding to an effectiveness trial, with 51% of those surveyed expressing a willingness to recruit with an unchanged trial protocol. LIMITATIONS Because the feasibility randomised controlled trial was performed in only three centres, successful recruitment across a larger number of sites cannot be guaranteed. However, the qualitative work has informed a bespoke training package to facilitate this. Although survey results suggest adequate clinician interest to make a larger trial possible, actual participation may differ, and equipoise may have changed over time. CONCLUSIONS A future effectiveness trial is feasible, following limited additional preparation, to establish appropriate outcome measures and case identification. It is recommended to include a limited package of qualitative work to optimise recruitment, in particular at new centres. FUTURE WORK Prior to proceeding to an effectiveness trial, there is a need to develop a robust method for distinguishing children with uncomplicated acute appendicitis from those with more advanced appendicitis, and to reach agreement on a primary outcome measure and effect size that is acceptable to all stakeholder groups involved. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN15830435. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 25, No. 10. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel J Hall
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Frances C Sherratt
- Department of Health Services Research, Institute of Population Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Simon Eaton
- University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Department of Population Health Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Isabel Reading
- Primary Care and Population Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Erin Walker
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Maria Chorozoglou
- Southampton Health Technology Assessment Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Lucy Beasant
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Wendy Wood
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), Research Design Service South Central, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Michael Stanton
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Southampton Children's Hospital, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Harriet J Corbett
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Dean Rex
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Natalie Hutchings
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Elizabeth Dixon
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Simon Grist
- Patient and public involvement representative
| | - William Van't Hoff
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Esther Crawley
- Centre for Academic Child Health, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jane Blazeby
- Centre for Surgical Research, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Bridget Young
- Department of Health Services Research, Institute of Population Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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11
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Outcomes after appendectomy in children with acute appendicitis treated at a tertiary paediatric centre: results from a retrospective cohort study. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2020; 406:163-169. [PMID: 32860108 PMCID: PMC7870764 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-020-01976-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In general, an appendectomy is presumed to have a limited burden of disease. However, in current literature, reported complication rates vary. This study aims to provide additional insights in the incidence of post-appendectomy complications in children with acute appendicitis. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included children (0-17 years old) that underwent appendectomy at our tertiary referral centre for suspected acute appendicitis (January 2011-December 2018). Children referred to our centre, and those that underwent non-operative treatment were excluded. Post-appendectomy complications were recorded from electronic medical charts using predefined definitions and classified as severe (Clavien-Dindo III-IV) or less severe (Clavien-Dindo I-II). RESULTS A total of 131 children were included. Simple and complex appendicitis was diagnosed in 66 (50%) and 60 (46%) children, respectively. A non-inflamed appendix was seen in five (4%) children. One or more complications were identified in 33 (25%) patients. Eight (12%) children with simple appendicitis developed a complication, three of these were severe. In children with complex appendicitis, 23 (38%) children developed a complication, 14 of these were severe. CONCLUSION This study shows a high rate of complications compared with current literature, both in children with simple and complex appendicitis. This is probably the result of our definition of complications and being a tertiary referral centre receiving more severe appendicitis cases. However, these results still show that appendectomy is not always a routine procedure with only few complications. Substantiating the need to keep optimizing treatment for children with appendicitis.
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12
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Hartford EA, Woodward GA. Appendectomy or Not? An Update on the Evidence for Antibiotics Only Versus Surgery for the Treatment of Acute Appendicitis in Children. Pediatr Emerg Care 2020; 36:347-352. [PMID: 32618901 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Appendicitis is a common diagnosis in children being evaluated in the emergency department. After diagnosis, standard treatment has been surgical appendectomy; however, in recent years there is a growing body of evidence evaluating the possibility of nonoperative management in both children and adults. This review will present the current state of the pediatric literature that suggests patients may be successfully treated with antibiotics alone (ie, without surgery), but that a proportion of these patients will have recurrent appendicitis. Given that the literature regarding the option of antibiotic-only management compared with surgery is not yet definitive, there are many factors for providers to discuss with families and patients when considering treatment for acute appendicitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - George A Woodward
- Professor, Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
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13
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Zavras N, Vaos G. Management of complicated acute appendicitis in children: Still an existing controversy. World J Gastrointest Surg 2020; 12:129-137. [PMID: 32426092 PMCID: PMC7215970 DOI: 10.4240/wjgs.v12.i4.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Complicated acute appendicitis (CAA) is a serious condition and carries significant morbidity in children. A strict diagnosis is challenging, as there are many lesions that mimic CAA. The management of CAA is still controversial. There are two options for treatment: Immediate operative management and non-operative management with antibiotics and/or drainage of any abscess or phlegmon. Each method of treatment has advantages and disadvantages. Operative management may be difficult due to the presence of inflamed tissues and may lead to detrimental events. In many cases, non-operative management with or without drainage and interval appendectomy is advised. The reasons for this approach include new medications and policies for the use of antibiotic therapy. Furthermore, advances in radiological interventions may overcome difficulties such as diagnosing and managing the complications of CAA without any surgeries. However, questions have been raised about the risk of recurrence, prolonged use of antibiotics, lengthened hospital stay and delay in returning to daily activities. Moreover, the need for interval appendectomy is currently under debate because of the low risk of recurrence. Due to the paucity of high-quality studies, more randomized controlled trials to determine the precise management strategy are needed. This review aims to study the current data on operative vs non-operative management for CAA in children and to extract any useful information from the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Zavras
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, “ATTIKON” University General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 12462, Greece
| | - George Vaos
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, “ATTIKON” University General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 12462, Greece
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14
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Ikegami M, Miyano G, Nojiri S, Ochi T, Shibuya S, Yazaki Y, Nakamura H, Seo S, Arii R, Murakami H, Okawada M, Koga H, Nishimura E, Miyake Y, Lane GJ, Yanagisawa N, Yamataka A. Indications for Nonoperative Management of Uncomplicated Appendicitis in Children: A Prospective Analysis at a Single Institution. J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A 2019; 30:70-75. [PMID: 31859590 DOI: 10.1089/lap.2019.0186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To assess nonoperative management (NOM) of uncomplicated appendicitis (UC-appy) in children to determine factors influencing prognosis and review the literature. Materials and Methods: All UC-appy cases presenting younger than 16 years between 2015 and 2018 who had NOM (one dose of intravenous analgesia and intravenous piperacillin/tazobactam 112.5 mg/kg 8 hourly) and were followed up for at least 3 months were reviewed prospectively (n = 146). Perceived pain and fever were assessed 12 hourly, biochemistry daily. If predetermined cutoff results were not achieved at each assessment, NOM was abandoned and urgent laparoscopic appendectomy (ULA) performed. Results: NOM succeeded in 48.6% (S-NOM; n = 71) and failed in 51.4% (F-NOM; n = 75). Mean age at presentation (10.7 ± 2.5 versus 8.6 ± 3.7 years old; P < .0001) and duration of preadmission fever (1.0 ± 0.9 versus 2.1 ± 1.2 days; P < .0001) were the only significantly different criteria between S-NOM and F-NOM. Optimal cutoff values using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were 7.0 years old (32% sensitivity and 93% specificity) and 1.0 day (95% sensitivity and 25% specificity), respectively. NOM was abandoned for persistent pain, prolonged fever, or raised white blood count at 12 hours in 20/75 (26.7%), 24 hours in 31/75 (41.3%), 36 hours in 14/75 (18.7%), and 48-72 hours in 10/75 (13.3%). At ULA, perforation was identified in 14/75 (18.7%). Complications arising within 3 months of ULA were residual abscess (n = 7/75; 9.3%) and transient ileus (n = 1/75; 1.3%). Conclusion: It would appear that surgery may be more appropriate for children with UC-appy when they are younger and febrile before admission for longer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiaki Ikegami
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Go Miyano
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuko Nojiri
- Clinical Research and Trial Center, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takanori Ochi
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Soichi Shibuya
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuta Yazaki
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroki Nakamura
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shogo Seo
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rumi Arii
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Murakami
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Manabu Okawada
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Koga
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Emi Nishimura
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Miyake
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Geoffrey J Lane
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naotake Yanagisawa
- Clinical Research and Trial Center, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsuyuki Yamataka
- Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Ranaweera C, Brar A, Somers GR, Sheikh F, Pierro A, Zani A. Management of pediatric appendiceal carcinoid: a single institution experience from 5000 appendectomies. Pediatr Surg Int 2019; 35:1427-1430. [PMID: 31555859 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-019-04575-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY Appendiceal carcinoid (neuroendocrine tumor or NET) is a rare neuroendocrine neoplasm often found incidentally following appendectomy for appendicitis. Surgery for appendicitis is currently under scrutiny and children are increasingly managed conservatively with antibiotics alone. Herein, we aimed to review our experience with the management of appendiceal carcinoids at our institution. METHODS Following ethical approval, we reviewed the charts of all patients who underwent appendectomy for appendicitis at our institution between 2000 and 2018. The pathology registry was consulted to identify children diagnosed with appendiceal carcinoid. Outcome measures included incidence, demographics, and management. MAIN RESULTS During the study period, 32 children (23 female) had an appendiceal carcinoid confirmed at pathology. Of these, 13 were initially treated with appendectomy (total of 5,059 appendectomies: 0.3% incidence). The other 19 had an appendectomy elsewhere by an adult general surgeon and were referred to our institution for further management. Overall, the mean age at diagnosis was 13 ± 2.7 years and all patient had a preoperative diagnosis of appendicitis, none of suspected carcinoid. Most children (75%) had acute non-perforated appendicitis. The overall mean size of the lesion was 1 ± 0.9 cm, with a > 2 cm lesion in 3 patients. Following diagnosis, 12 children (38%) underwent an ileocolic resection, due to carcinoid size, invasiveness, and margin clearance. CONCLUSIONS In our cohort, the incidence of appendiceal carcinoid among children with appendicitis is very low. Most carcinoids are small, located at the tip, associated with non-perforated appendicitis, and present in girls. Most were treated with appendectomy alone, with more extensive surgery performed in one third of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chirath Ranaweera
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Amanpreet Brar
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Gino R Somers
- Division of Pathology, Department of Pediatric Laboratory Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Furqan Sheikh
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Agostino Pierro
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Augusto Zani
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada.
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16
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El-Beheiry M, Davidson J, Jones S, Bütter A, Scott L, Merritt N. Outcomes of extracorporeal, transumbilical versus intracorporeal laparoscopic appendectomy for acute uncomplicated appendicitis in children and adolescents: A retrospective observational cohort study. J Pediatr Surg 2019; 54:1059-1062. [PMID: 30803791 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2019.01.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An extracorporeal (ECA), transumbilical appendectomy has been proposed as a treatment for appendicitis. This study assessed the 30-day perioperative outcomes and cost between ECA and traditional intracorporeal (ICA) techniques for acute uncomplicated appendicitis. METHODS IRB approval was obtained for this retrospective cohort study of acute uncomplicated appendicitis in children aged 4 to 17 between April 2014 and April 2017. Patients were grouped based on ICA versus ECA. Operative time, length of stay, and complication rates were recorded. RESULTS A total of 289 patients were included, and of these 217 underwent ICA, and 72 underwent ECA. Median weight-for-age percentile was the only demographic characteristic different between groups (ECA 50 [0.1-100] vs. ICA 71 [0-100]; p < 0.01). Median operative time was significantly shorter in the ECA group (21.0 min [8.0-61.0] vs. 38.0 min [19.0-87.0]; p < 0.0001). Length of stay and complication rates were similar between groups. The median per case cost was significantly lower in the ECA group (CAD$ 593.05 range: 499.70-900.81 vs. CAD$ 858.78 range: 490.36-1106.29; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Extracorporeal transumbilical laparoscopic appendectomy is associated with shorter operative times and no increased risk of 30-day postoperative complications in children and adolescents. This offers a new operative approach that may reduce hospital cost and resources. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa El-Beheiry
- Department of Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond St., London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C1
| | - Jacob Davidson
- Department of Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond St., London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C1
| | - Sarah Jones
- Department of Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond St., London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C1
| | - Andreana Bütter
- Department of Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond St., London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C1
| | - Leslie Scott
- Department of Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond St., London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C1
| | - Neil Merritt
- Department of Surgery, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond St., London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C1.
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17
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Knaapen M, van der Lee JH, Heij HA, van Heurn ELW, Bakx R, Gorter RR. Clinical recovery in children with uncomplicated appendicitis undergoing non-operative treatment: secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study. Eur J Pediatr 2019; 178:235-242. [PMID: 30421265 PMCID: PMC6339679 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-018-3277-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Non-operative treatment of uncomplicated appendicitis in children is gaining ground. Pending definitive evidence regarding its effectiveness, there is a call to evaluate clinical recovery after non-operative treatment. In this study, we analyzed data collected during initial admission of a multicenter prospective cohort in which children, 7-17 year, were treated non-operatively for uncomplicated appendicitis. During admission clinical parameters (pain and gastro-intestinal symptoms), inflammation parameters and sequential abdominal ultrasound were recorded. In total, 45 children were included, 42(93%) were discharged without the need for appendectomy; median [IQR] pain scores on admission were 5 [4-7], decreasing to 2 [0-3] after 1 day of treatment. Initially, 28/42 (67%) reported nausea and 19/42 (45%) vomiting; after 1 day, this was 3/42 (7%) and 1/42 (2%), respectively. White blood cell count declined from a median [IQR] of 12.9 [10.7-16.7] 10E9/L on admission to 7.0 [5.8-9.9] 10E9/L on day 1. Median [IQR] C-reactive protein levels increased from 27.5 [9-69] mg/L on admission to 48 [22-80] mg/L on day 1, declining to 21.5 [11-42] mg/L on day 2. Follow-up ultrasound showed no signs of complicated appendicitis in any of the patients.Conclusion: Clinical symptoms resolved in most children after 1 day of non-operative treatment. This suggests that non-operative treatment is a viable alternative to appendectomy regarding clinical recovery.Trail registration: NCT01356641 What is Known: • Non-operative treatment of uncomplicated appendicitis in children is safe and its use around the world is gaining ground, however high quality evidence from adequately designed randomized trials is still lacking. • Concerns have been raised regarding the potentially prolonged clinical recovery associated with non-operative treatment. What is New: • Most clinical symptoms resolve after 1 day of non-operative treatment in the majority of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Knaapen
- Pediatric Surgical Center of Amsterdam, Emma Children’s Hospital and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna H. van der Lee
- Pediatric Clinical Research Office, Academic Medical Center, Emma Children’s Hospital and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hugo A. Heij
- Pediatric Surgical Center of Amsterdam, Emma Children’s Hospital and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ernst L. W. van Heurn
- Pediatric Surgical Center of Amsterdam, Emma Children’s Hospital and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Bakx
- Pediatric Surgical Center of Amsterdam, Emma Children’s Hospital and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ramon R. Gorter
- Pediatric Surgical Center of Amsterdam, Emma Children’s Hospital and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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18
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Coccolini F, Fugazzola P, Sartelli M, Cicuttin E, Sibilla MG, Leandro G, De' Angelis GL, Gaiani F, Di Mario F, Tomasoni M, Catena F, Ansaloni L. Conservative treatment of acute appendicitis. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2018; 89:119-134. [PMID: 30561405 PMCID: PMC6502196 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v89i9-s.7905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Acute appendicitis has been considered by surgeons a progressive disease leading to perforation for more than 100 years. In the last decades the theories about this concept gained attention, especially in adults. However, appendectomy for acute appendicitis remains the most common urgent/emergent surgical procedure. At present, accumulating evidences are showing the changing in clinical practice towards the non-operative management of several cases of acute appendicitis either non-complicated or complicated. The present review aims to show the literature results regarding the non-operative management of acute appendicitis in non-complicated and in complicated cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Coccolini
- Emergency, General and Trauma Surgery dept., Bufalini hospital, Cesena, Italy.
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19
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Yamanaka S, Skarsgard ED, Goldman RD. Conservative therapy for appendicitis in children. CANADIAN FAMILY PHYSICIAN MEDECIN DE FAMILLE CANADIEN 2018; 64:574-576. [PMID: 30108072 PMCID: PMC6189881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Question A 10-year-old girl who was seen in my office last week with acute-onset abdominal pain and fever was referred to an emergency department, was diagnosed with appendicitis, and was treated conservatively with antibiotics, without surgery. Has the paradigm for treating appendicitis changed, and which is the preferred treatment of appendicitis in children: antibiotics or appendectomy?Answer For more than 100 years, surgical management was the principal treatment of acute appendicitis. Potential adverse events associated with appendectomy include bleeding, surgical site infection, and ileus, as well as stress for children and their parents. The option of treating appendicitis with antibiotics has been known for decades, which has led to consideration of antibiotics alone as a therapeutic alternative to surgery for uncomplicated appendicitis. While there is a reasonable body of evidence in support of this practice in adults, the accumulation of evidence of the safety and effectiveness of non-operative management in children is ongoing. Large studies are still needed, and those are being conducted at this time, with results expected in the next few years.
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20
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Hall NJ, Eaton S. Non-operative management of appendicitis in children. Arch Dis Child 2018; 103:498-502. [PMID: 29066523 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2017-313267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
While appendicectomy has been considered the mainstay of treatment for children with acute appendicitis for many decades, there has been a great deal of recent interest in non-operative treatment (NOT) with antibiotics alone. Initial results suggest that many children with appendicitis can indeed be safely treated with NOT and can be spared the surgeon's knife. Many as yet unanswered questions remain, however, before NOT can be considered a realistic and reliable alternative to surgery. This review summaries current knowledge and understanding of the role of NOT in children with appendicitis and outlines and discusses the outstanding knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel J Hall
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Southampton Children's Hospital, Southampton, UK.,University Surgery Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Simon Eaton
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
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21
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Hutchings N, Wood W, Reading I, Walker E, Blazeby JM, van’t Hoff W, Young B, Crawley EM, Eaton S, Chorozoglou M, Sherratt FC, Beasant L, Corbett H, Stanton MP, Grist S, Dixon E, Hall NJ. CONTRACT Study - CONservative TReatment of Appendicitis in Children (feasibility): study protocol for a randomised controlled Trial. Trials 2018; 19:153. [PMID: 29499722 PMCID: PMC5833142 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-2520-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently, the routine treatment for acute appendicitis in the United Kingdom is an appendicectomy. However, there is increasing scientific interest and research into non-operative treatment of appendicitis in adults and children. While a number of studies have investigated non-operative treatment of appendicitis in adults, this research cannot be applied to the paediatric population. Ultimately, we aim to perform a UK-based multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT) to test the clinical and cost effectiveness of non-operative treatment of acute uncomplicated appendicitis in children, as compared with appendicectomy. First, we will undertake a feasibility study to assess the feasibility of performing such a trial. METHODS/DESIGN The study involves a feasibility RCT with a nested qualitative research to optimise recruitment as well as a health economic substudy. Children (aged 4-15 years inclusive) diagnosed with acute uncomplicated appendicitis that would normally be treated with an appendicectomy are eligible for the RCT. Exclusion criteria include clinical/radiological suspicion of perforated appendicitis, appendix mass or previous non-operative treatment of appendicitis. Participants will be randomised into one of two arms. Participants in the intervention arm are treated with antibiotics and regular clinical assessment to ensure clinical improvement. Participants in the control arm will receive appendicectomy. Randomisation will be minimised by age, sex, duration of symptoms and centre. Children and families who are approached for the RCT will be invited to participate in the embedded qualitative substudy, which includes recording of recruitment consultants and subsequent interviews with participants and non-participants and their families and recruiters. Analyses of these will inform interventions to optimise recruitment. The main study outcomes include recruitment rate (primary outcome), identification of strategies to optimise recruitment, performance of trial treatment pathways, clinical outcomes and safety of non-operative treatment. We have involved children, young people and parents in study design and delivery. DISCUSSION In this study we will explore the feasibility of performing a full efficacy RCT comparing non-operative treatment with appendicectomy in children with acute uncomplicated appendicitis. Factors determining success of the present study include recruitment rate, safety of non-operative treatment and adequate interest in the future RCT. Ultimately this feasibility study will form the foundation of the main RCT and reinforce its design. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN15830435 . Registered on 8 February 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Hutchings
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Wendy Wood
- National Institute of Health Research (NIHR), Research Design Service South Central, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Isabel Reading
- Primary Care and Population Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Erin Walker
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jane M. Blazeby
- Centre for Surgical Research, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - William van’t Hoff
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Bridget Young
- Institute of Psychology, Health & Society, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Esther M. Crawley
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Simon Eaton
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Maria Chorozoglou
- Southampton Health Technology Assessment Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Frances C. Sherratt
- Institute of Psychology, Health & Society, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Lucy Beasant
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Harriet Corbett
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, East Prescott Road, Liverpool, L14 5AB UK
| | - Michael P. Stanton
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Southampton Children’s Hospital, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Simon Grist
- Patient and Public Involvement Representative, Southampton, UK
| | - Elizabeth Dixon
- Southampton Clinical Trials Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Nigel J. Hall
- Department of Paediatric Surgery and Urology, Southampton Children’s Hospital, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- University Surgery Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Mailpoint 816, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD UK
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22
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Knaapen M, van der Lee JH, Bakx R, The SML, van Heurn EWE, Heij HA, Gorter RR. Initial non-operative management of uncomplicated appendicitis in children: a protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial (APAC trial). BMJ Open 2017; 7:e018145. [PMID: 29146647 PMCID: PMC5695479 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-018145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Based on epidemiological, immunological and pathology data, the idea that appendicitis is not necessarily a progressive disease is gaining ground. Two types are distinguished: simple and complicated appendicitis. Non-operative treatment (NOT) of children with simple appendicitis has been investigated in several small studies. So far, it is deemed safe. However, its effectiveness and effect on quality of life (QoL) have yet to be established in an adequately powered randomised trial. In this article, we provide the study protocol for the APAC (Antibiotics versus Primary Appendectomy in Children) trial. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This multicentre, non-inferiority, randomised controlled trial randomises children aged 7-17 years with imaging-confirmed simple appendicitis between appendectomy and NOT. Patients are recruited in 15 hospitals. The intended sample size, based on the primary outcome, rate of complications and a non-inferiority margin of 5%, is 334 patients.NOT consists of intravenous antibiotics for 48-72 hours, daily blood tests and ultrasound follow-up. If the patient meets the predefined discharge criteria, antibiotic treatment is continued orally at home. Primary outcome is the rate of complications at 1-year follow-up. An independent adjudication committee will assess all complications and their relation to the allocated treatment. Secondary outcomes include, but are not limited to, delayed appendectomies, QoL, pain and (in)direct costs.The primary outcome will be analysed both according to the intention-to-treat principle and the per-protocol principle, and is presented with a one-sided 97.5% CI. We will use multiple logistic and linear regression for binary and continuous outcomes, respectively, to adjust for stratification factors. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The protocol has been approved by the Medical Ethics Review Committee of the Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam. Data monitoring is performed by an independent institute and a Data Safety Monitoring Board has been assigned. Results will be presented in peer-reviewed academic journals and at (international) conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02848820; NTR5977; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Knaapen
- Pediatric Surgical Center of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital AMC and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna H van der Lee
- Pediatric Clinical Research Office, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roel Bakx
- Pediatric Surgical Center of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital AMC and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah-May L The
- Pediatric Surgical Center of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital AMC and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ernst W E van Heurn
- Pediatric Surgical Center of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital AMC and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hugo A Heij
- Pediatric Surgical Center of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital AMC and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ramon R Gorter
- Pediatric Surgical Center of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital AMC and VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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23
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Read A, Xu J, Adams S, Karpelowsky J. Five lessons in uncomplicated appendicitis: Can we remove the surgery? J Paediatr Child Health 2017; 53:1127-1130. [PMID: 29148199 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.13741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Revised: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Appendicectomy has remained the treatment of choice for appendicitis for over a century and is the most commonly performed emergency operation in children. However, emerging evidence suggests that appendicectomy may not always be necessary in uncomplicated appendicitis, with early paediatric trials demonstrating that antibiotic-only therapy can be safe and effective. Further rigorously designed and appropriately powered studies are necessarily to establish the place of non-operative management of uncomplicated appendicitis in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Read
- School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Paediatric Surgery, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jane Xu
- School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Susan Adams
- School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Paediatric Surgery, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathan Karpelowsky
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Division of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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24
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Are we doing right suggesting a non-operative management for suspected appendicitis in children? J Pediatr Surg 2017; 52:1702-1703. [PMID: 28578982 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2017.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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25
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Snyder CL. Alternatives to Appendectomy for Acute Appendicitis. Pediatrics 2017; 140:peds.2017-1232. [PMID: 28759419 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2017-1232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Charles L Snyder
- Department of Surgery, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri
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