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Juviler P, Greene AC, Fisher T, Kulaylat AN, Chandler J, Gray F, Gingalewski C, Ehster C, Bolhuis M, Garcia E, Broussard M, Lally KP, Levene T, Wakeman D. Reducing Postoperative CT Imaging for Children With Complicated Appendicitis: A Pediatric Surgical Quality Collaborative Quality Improvement Project. J Pediatr Surg 2024:S0022-3468(24)00194-5. [PMID: 38609761 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2024.03.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite widespread initiatives to reduce ionizing radiation for appendicitis diagnosis, computed tomography (CT) scanning postoperatively remains common. The Pediatric Surgery Quality Collaborative (PSQC) aimed to identify differences between children's hospitals with high and low postoperative CT usage for complicated appendicitis. METHODS Using National Surgery Quality Improvement Program Pediatric data from PSQC children's hospitals, we compared postoperative CT imaging for complicated appendicitis (April 2020-March 2021). Key stakeholders from 11 hospitals (5 low CT utilization, 6 high CT utilization) participated in semi-structured interviews regarding postoperative imaging. Qualitative analysis of transcripts was performed deductively and inductively based on the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). RESULTS Five of twelve TDF domains were most prominent in influencing CT use: skills, beliefs about capabilities, intentions/goals, memory and decision processes, and environment. Children's hospitals with lower rates of postoperative CT use tended to: trust and educate the ultrasound technicians; believe US strengths outweigh weaknesses; image no sooner than 7 days postoperatively; have access to sufficient quality improvement resources; maintain trusting relationships between specialties; and prioritize radiation stewardship. CONCLUSION Hospitals at extremes of postoperative CT use for complicated appendicitis reveal strategies for improvement, which include imaging protocol development and adherence, quality improvement resource availability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and promoting radiation stewardship. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level V.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Juviler
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, United States.
| | - Alicia C Greene
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Terry Fisher
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Afif N Kulaylat
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - John Chandler
- University of South Carolina School of Medicine - Greenville, Greenville, SC, United States
| | - Fabienne Gray
- Children's Hospital New Orleans, Louisiana State University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Cindy Gingalewski
- Pediatric Surgery, Randall Children's Hospital, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Catherine Ehster
- Children's Wisconsin, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Mary Bolhuis
- Children's Wisconsin, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Elisa Garcia
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Maryam Broussard
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Kevin P Lally
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Tamar Levene
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital, Hollywood, FL, United States
| | - Derek Wakeman
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642, United States
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Greene AC, Mankarious MM, Matzelle-Zywicki M, Patel A, Reyes L, Tsai AY, Santos MC, Moore MM, Kulaylat AN. A Magnetic Resonance Imaging Protocol for the Evaluation of Pediatric Postappendectomy Abscess: A Quality Improvement Project. J Surg Res 2024; 293:587-595. [PMID: 37837813 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2023.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Computed tomography (CT) scans are often used when cross-sectional imaging is required for evaluation of postappendectomy abscess, exposing children to a source of ionizing radiation. Our aim was to decrease the use of CT scans in pediatric postappendectomy patients by 50% in 12 mo and to sustain those results for 1 y. METHODS A comprehensive magnetic resonance imaging protocol was introduced in 2018 at a tertiary children's hospital within a general health system to replace CT scans in suspected pediatric postappendectomy abscess. Diagnostic and clinical outcomes were compared preprotocol (2015-2017) and postprotocol (2018-2022) implementation using standard univariate statistics. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Quality improvement methodology was used to design and implement the protocol. RESULTS Sixty eight pediatric postappendectomy patients received cross-sectional imaging during the study period. Overall, CT scans were used exclusively (100%, n = 27) in the preimplementation period compared to 31.7% (n = 13) of cross-sectional imaging in the postimplementation period. However, in the first year of protocol implementation, CT scan use only decreased to 78% of cross-sectional studies performed. The majority of protocol deviations (54%) also occurred in this time period. With improved education and reinforcement, CT scan utilization decreased to approximately 24% of cross-sectional studies annually. Missed abscess rate, time to diagnosis, drainage procedure type, readmission, and reoperation were similar between preimplementation and postimplementation periods. CONCLUSIONS Implementation of a postappendectomy abscess magnetic resonance imaging protocol was associated with decreased CT utilization in the pediatric population, while maintaining comparable diagnostic evaluation and clinical outcomes. Adherence to quality improvement principles facilitated achieving goals and sustaining gains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia C Greene
- Department of Surgery, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Marc M Mankarious
- Department of Surgery, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Akshilkumar Patel
- Department of Surgery, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Lilia Reyes
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Anthony Y Tsai
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Mary C Santos
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Michael M Moore
- Department of Radiology, Nemours Children's Hospital, Wilmington, Delaware
| | - Afif N Kulaylat
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania.
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Mahdi E, Toscano N, Pierson L, Ndikumana E, Ayers B, Chacon A, Brayer A, Chess M, Davis C, Dorman R, Livingston M, Arca M, Wakeman D. Sustaining the gains: Reducing unnecessary computed tomography scans in pediatric trauma patients. J Pediatr Surg 2023; 58:111-117. [PMID: 36272813 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2022.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE "Pan-scanning" pediatric blunt trauma patients leads to exposure to harmful radiation and increased healthcare costs without improving outcomes. We aimed to reduce computed tomography (CT) scans that are not indicated (NI) by imaging guidelines for injured children. METHODS In July 2017, our Pediatric Trauma Center prospectively implemented validated imaging guidelines to direct CT imaging for trauma activations and consultations for children younger than 16 years old with blunt traumatic injuries. Patients with suspected physical abuse, CT imaging prior to arrival, penetrating mechanism, and instability precluding CT imaging were excluded. We compared CT scanning rates for pre-implementation (01/2016-06/2017) and post-implementation (07/2017-08/2021) time periods. Guideline compliance was evaluated by chart review and sustained through iterative process improvement cycles. RESULTS During the pre-implementation era, 61 patients underwent 171 CT scans of which 87 (51%) scans were not indicated by guidelines. Post-implementation, 363 patients had 531 scans and only 134 (25%) CTs were not indicated. Total CTs performed declined after initiation of guidelines (2.80 vs 1.46 scans/patient, p<0.0001). Total NI CTs declined (1.41 vs 0.37 NI scans/patient, p<0.0001) reflected in significant reductions in all anatomic regions: head, cervical spine, chest, and abdomen/pelvis. Charges related to NI scans decreased from $1,490.31/patient to $408.21/patient, saving $218,000 in charges. Based on prior utilization, 146 children were spared excessive radiation with no clinically significant missed injuries since guideline implementation. CONCLUSIONS Quality improvement and implementation science methodologies to enhance compliance with imaging guidelines for children with blunt injuries can significantly reduce unnecessary CT scanning without compromising care. This practice reduces harmful radiation exposure in a sensitive patient population and may save healthcare systems money and resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaa Mahdi
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Nicole Toscano
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Lauren Pierson
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Eric Ndikumana
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Brian Ayers
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Alexander Chacon
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Anne Brayer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Mitchell Chess
- Department of Imaging Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Colleen Davis
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Robert Dorman
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Michael Livingston
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Marjorie Arca
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States
| | - Derek Wakeman
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, United States.
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Kashtan M, Graham D, Anandalwar S, Hills-Dunlap J, Rangel S. Influence of symptom duration and WBC profile on the negative predictive value of a nondiagnostic ultrasound in children with suspected appendicitis. J Pediatr Surg 2020; 55:1032-1036. [PMID: 32171532 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2020.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to explore the combined negative predictive value (NPV) of symptom duration and WBC profile in children with a nondiagnostic ultrasound (US) for appendicitis. METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of children with suspected appendicitis at a single children's hospital from 1/2010 to 3/2018. NPVs based on WBC profile and symptom duration at presentation were calculated individually and combined for children with a nondiagnostic US. RESULTS 2277 patients were included, of which 1018 (44.7%) had a nondiagnostic US. The NPV of a nondiagnostic US ranged from 83.7% with ≤24 h of symptoms to 94.5% with >72 h of symptoms (p < 0.01). NPV also differed significantly across WBC profiles, ranging from 76.8% when WBC profile was elevated to 97.3% to when WBC profile was normal (p < 0.01). The range of NPVs for a nondiagnostic US was even greater when combining symptom duration and WBC profile, ranging from 73.7% for patients with 24-48 h of symptoms and an elevated WBC profile to 100% for patients with >72 h of symptoms and a normal WBC profile. CONCLUSIONS Incorporation of symptom duration and WBC profile significantly improves the accuracy and clinical utility of the negative predictive value associated with a nondiagnostic ultrasound. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Study of diagnostic test level II: development of diagnostic criteria in a consecutive series of patients and a universally applied gold standard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Kashtan
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Dionne Graham
- Center for Applied Pediatric Quality Analytics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Seema Anandalwar
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Jonathan Hills-Dunlap
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Shawn Rangel
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
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