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An Amyand’s hernia is characterised as the presence of the appendix in an inguinal hernial sac. During laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gallbladder polyps, an incidental Amyand’s hernia was discovered in a 75-year-old female patient. On examination, the hernia contained an appendiceal mucocele but no evidence of perforation. An open appendicectomy with tension-free mesh repair was performed for the hernia. The histopathological report of the appendix was a low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (LAMN), an entity that is just as rare as an Amyand’s hernia. The patient had the right inguinal swelling for over 10 years but it was thought to be an inguinal intramuscular cyst as reported on a previous abdominal ultrasound. Mucocele of the appendix may have a benign or malignant appendiceal progress, leading to individualised diagnosis and treatment. We review an Amyand’s hernia with LAMN and discuss the asymptomatic tendency yet malignant potential of appendiceal mucoceles along with treatment strategies.

OBJECTIVE: To determine if surgery and anesthesia in the elderly may promote Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). BACKGROUND: There is a substantial conflicting literature concerning the hypothesis that surgery and anesthesia promotes ADRD. Much of the literature is confounded by indications for surgery or has small sample size. This study examines elderly patients with appendicitis, a common condition that strikes mostly at random after controlling for some known associations. METHODS: A matched natural experiment of patients undergoing appendectomy for appendicitis versus control patients without appendicitis using Medicare data from 2002 to 2017, examining 54,996 patients without previous diagnoses of ADRD, cognitive impairment, or neurological degeneration, who developed appendicitis between ages 68 through 77 years and underwent an appendectomy (the “Appendectomy” treated group), matching them 5:1 to 274,980 controls, examining the subsequent hazard for developing ADRD. RESULTS: The hazard ratio (HR) for developing ADRD or death was lower in the Appendectomy group than controls: HR = 0.96 (95% CI 0.94, 0.98), P < 0.0001, (28.2% in Appendectomy versus 29.1% in controls, at 7.5 years). The HR for death was 0.97 (0.95, 0.99), P = 0.002, (22.7% versus 23.1% at 7.5 years). The HR for developing ADRD alone was 0.89 (0.86, 0.92), P < 0.0001, (7.6% in Appendectomy versus 8.6% in controls, at 7.5 years). No subgroup analyses found significantly elevated rates of ADRD in the Appendectomy group. CONCLUSIONS: In this natural experiment involving 329,976 elderly patients, exposure to appendectomy surgery and anesthesia did not increase the subsequent rate of ADRD.

An 84-year-old woman presented acutely with dizziness, fatigue and a total of 800 mL of fresh per rectum (PR) bleeding. The significant history of abdominal aortic aneurysm repair 5 years ago included multiple episodes of endovascular leak around the stent associated with abscess of left psoas major, left abdominal wall abscess with sinus formation, appendicitis with abscess formation, and acute pancreatic and chronic cholecystitis with multiple gallstones in the 7 months prior to this presentation. During the preceding 7 months, the patient was stabilised with an intravenous proton pump inhibitor, blood transfusions and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) management for the assumed diagnosis of stress ulcers over multiple hospital admissions. Imaging with CT scan of the abdomen made the more accurate diagnosis of acute gastrointestinal haemorrhage caused by a fistula between the distal duodenum and aorta, which was later surgically confirmed. Removal of infected stents and axillobifemoral bypass were performed with a successful recovery.

ObjectiveWhile appendectomy may reduce colorectal inflammation in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), appendectomy has been suggested to be associated with an increased risk of colitis-associated cancer (CAC). The aim of this study was to explore the mechanism underlying the appendectomy-associated increased risk of CAC.DesignFive-week-old male BALB/c mice underwent appendectomy, appendicitis induction or sham laparotomy. They were then exposed to azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate (AOM/DSS) to induce CAC. Mice were sacrificed 12 weeks later, and colons were taken for pathological analysis and immunohistochemistry (CD3 and CD8 staining). Human colonic tumors from 21 UC patients who underwent surgical resection for CAC were immunophenotyped and stratified according to the appendectomy status.ResultsWhile appendectomy significantly reduced colitis severity and increased CAC number, appendicitis induction without appendectomy led to opposite results. Intra-tumor CD3+ and CD8+ T-cell densities were lower after appendectomy and higher after appendicitis induction compared to the sham laparotomy group. Blocking lymphocyte trafficking to the colon with the anti-α4β7 integrin antibody or a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor agonist suppressed the inducing effect of the appendectomy on tumors’ number and on CD3+/CD8+ intra-tumoral density. CD8+ or CD3+ T cells isolated from inflammatory neo-appendix and intravenously injected into AOM/DSS-treated recipient mice increased CD3+/CD8+ T-cell tumor infiltration and decreased tumor number. In UC patients with a history of appendectomy, intra-tumor CD3+ and CD8+ T-cell densities were decreased compared to UC patients without history of appendectomy.ConclusionsIn UC, appendectomy could suppress a major site of T-cell priming resulting in a less efficient CAC immunosurveillance.Significance of this studyWhat is already known on this subject?The protective effect of preemptive appendectomy is currently investigated as a therapy for refractory ulcerative colitis (UC), with encouraging results.An increased risk of developing colitis-associated cancer (CAC) caused by this promising treatment has been identified.Since it is commonly accepted that CAC is related to colitis severity and extent, this finding is counterintuitive and the mechanisms of this paradoxical effect remain unknown.What are the new findings?In a mouse model of CAC, less extended colitis associated with an increased number of tumors was observed. Intra-tumor T-cell infiltration was significantly reduced after appendectomy. Blocking lymphocyte trafficking to the colon with current or experimental UC treatments mimicked the appendectomy-associated phenotype whereas neo-appendicitis or appendix-primed T-cell injection in recipient mice increased intra-tumor T-cell infiltration and strengthened protection against CAC.In UC patients with CAC, appendectomy was associated with a decreased intra-tumor T-cell infiltration.These findings suggest that, in UC, appendectomy could suppress a major site of T-cell priming in the colon, resulting in a reduced CAC immunosurveillance.How might it impact on clinical practice in the foreseeable future?This work emphasizes the fact that precautions will be necessary if appendectomy becomes an accepted therapeutic option for the treatment of refractory UC.Innovative cell-based therapies and immunotherapies, such as the administration of stimulated autologous appendicular T cells in patients with CAC are promising options.

Objective: : To develop an international Core Outcome Set (COS), a minimal collection of outcomes that should be measured and reported in all future clinical trials evaluating treatments of acute simple appendicitis in children.Summary Background Data: A previous systematic review identified 115 outcomes in 60 trials and systematic reviews evaluating treatments for children with appendicitis, suggesting the need for a COS.Methods: The development process consisted of four phases: (1) an updated systematic review identifying all previously reported outcomes, (2) a two-stage international Delphi study in which parents with their children and surgeons rated these outcomes for inclusion in the COS, (3) focus groups with young people to identify missing outcomes, and (4) international expert meetings to ratify the final COS.Results: The systematic review identified 129 outcomes which were mapped to 43 unique outcome terms for the Delphi survey. The first-round included 137 parents (eight countries) and 245 surgeons (10 countries), the second-round response rates were 61% and 85% respectively, with ten outcomes emerging with consensus. After two young peoples’ focus groups, two additional outcomes were added to the final COS (12): mortality, bowel obstruction, intra-abdominal abscess, recurrent appendicitis, complicated appendicitis, return to baseline health, readmission, reoperation, unplanned appendectomy, adverse events related to treatment, major and minor complications.Conclusion: An evidence-informed COS based on international consensus, including patients and parents has been developed. This COS is recommended for all future studies evaluating treatment of simple appendicitis in children, to reduce heterogeneity between studies and facilitate data synthesis and evidence-based decision-making.

Background : Narrow-spectrum antibiotics have been found to be equivalent to anti-Pseudomonal agents in preventing organ space infections (OSI) in children with uncomplicated appendicitis. Comparative effectiveness data for children with complicated appendicitis remains limited. This investigation aimed to compare outcomes between the most common narrow-spectrum regimen (ceftriaxone with metronidazole: CM) and anti-Pseudomonal regimen (piperacillin/tazobactam: PT) used perioperatively in children with complicated appendicitis. Methods : Multicenter retrospective cohort study using clinical data from the NSQIP-Pediatric Appendectomy Collaborative database merged with antibiotic utilization data from the Pediatric Health Information System database. Mixed-effects multivariate regression was used to compare NSQIP-defined outcomes and resource utilization between treatment groups after adjusting for patient characteristics, disease severity, and clustering of outcomes within hospitals. Results : 654 patients from 14 hospitals were included, of which 37.9% received CM and 62.1% received PT. Following adjustment, patients in both groups had similar rates of OSI (CM: 13.3% vs. PT: 18.0%, OR 0.88 [95%CI 0.38, 2.03]), drainage procedures (CM: 8.9% vs. PT: 14.9%, OR 0.76 [95%CI 0.30, 1.92]), and postoperative imaging (CM: 19.8% vs. PT: 22.5%, OR 1.17 [95%CI 0.65, 2.12]). Treatment groups also had similar rates of 30-day cumulative post-operative length of stay (CM: 6.1 vs. PT: 6.0 days, RR 1.01 [95%CI 0.81, 1.25]) and hospital cost (CM: $19,235 vs. PT: $20,552, RR 0.92 [95%CI 0.69, 1.23]). Conclusions : Rates of organ space infection and resource utilization were similar in children with complicated appendicitis treated with ceftriaxone plus metronidazole and piperacillin/tazobactam.

Background Pathophysiology of appendicitis is associated with the underlying inflammatory processes. Ethyl pyruvate (EP) has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of EP on the treatment of appendicitis and to examine whether adding EP to the antibiotic treatment could increases the effectiveness of the treatment in a rat appendicitis model. Method Thirty two Wistar rats, which had previously created appendicitis, were randomly divided into 4 groups: Group 1 (0.1 ml saline solution), Group 2 (15 mg/kg ceftriaxone), Group 3 (50 mg/kg EP), Group 4 (EP 50 mg/kg + ceftriaxone 15 mg/kg). In all groups, saline solution, ceftriaxone and EP were administered intraperitoneally and the same procedure was repeated twice a day for the following five days. On day 6, the rats underwent relaparotomy and then intraabdominal findings were recorded. Histopathological examination and interleukin-6 (IL-6) level were performed on appendiceal specimens. Results Intra-abdominal adhesion score was significantly lower in Group 4 than in Group 1. Total inflammation score was significantly lower in Group 2 than in Group 1 and was significantly lower in Group 4 than in Group 3 and 1. IL-6 level was significantly lower in Group 4 than in Group 3 and 1. Conclusion We found that adding EP to the antibiotic therapy increased the efficacy of the treatment in the rat appendicitis model. Further studies are required to apply our findings to the clinical setting.

Enterocolic lymphocytic phlebitis (ELP) is a rare pathology, usually seen in the adult population. The condition affects the venous vasculature of the intestine sparing the arteries and lymphatics. It is commonly identified histologically after surgical resection making the preoperative diagnosis a clinical challenge. As the condition can lead to intestinal ischaemia and necrosis, surgical resection of the affected segment is the treatment of choice. We report the case of a 9-year-old girl who presented with a 2-day history of lower abdominal pain and anorexia. The initial diagnosis of appendicitis was made clinically and the patient underwent a diagnostic laparoscopy . The appendix was macroscopically normal and there were no other obvious intra-abdominal pathologies to account for her presenting complaints . The appendix was removed, as per the preoperative discussion and consent from parents. She recovered well and was discharged home the following day. The histological examination of the appendix demonstrated ELP. We describe this rare clinical entity in a child especially in view of the scarce published literature in the paediatric population.

We present a case of a 41-year-old woman who visited the emergency department (ED) with acute abdomen. She was diagnosed with perforated appendicitis and abscess formation on CT. She was treated conservatively with antibiotics and discharged. On control CT 3 months later, the appendix had healed, but signs of thickening of the terminal ileum were noticed and colonoscopy was performed, which was uneventful and showed no signs of inflammation. Twelve hours later, she developed pain in the right lower quadrant, followed by fever, and visited the ED. Physical examination and blood work showed signs consistent with acute appendicitis, and appendectomy was performed laparoscopically 6 hours later. The patient recovered remarkably shortly afterwards. Whether colonoscopy resulted in de novo appendicitis or exacerbated an already existing inflammation remains unknown. However, endoscopists should be aware of this rare, yet serious complication and consider it in the workup of post-colonoscopy abdominal pain.

Introduction Making healthcare decisions for children can be challenging for parents or guardians. We aimed to characterize the decision-making preferences and stress of parents or guardians who were offered both appendectomy or nonoperative management (NOM) for children with acute appendicitis. Methods Criteria was developed for offering operative or NOM for patients. At the time of decision, parents or guardians completed a survey assessing their understanding of treatment options, stress and preferences in being given the choice. An outpatient follow-up survey was later administered to evaluate post-decision satisfaction. Results A total of 45 respondents were included in the study. Over 95% endorsed understanding of the risks/benefits of the options and felt supported and satisfied with their decision. Half felt the process was more than minimally stressful, 77% felt the decision was easy to make, 89% liked being asked and 95% preferred to make the decision themselves with varying degrees of input from their physician. Of the 62% of parents or guardians who completed the follow-up survey, >90% were satisfied with their decision and one respondent regretted their choice. Discussion When offered the choice between operative and NOM of acute appendicitis, half of parents or guardians felt greater than minimal stress. The majority endorsed adequate understanding of the options, felt it was an easy decision, and maintained the desire to be the primary decision maker for their child. Our study provides preliminary data on parental or guardian attitudes towards shared decision-making in the surgical setting. Follow-up studies should focus on identifying predictors for those who feel increased stress and difficulty with decision-making.

Introduction Enterobius vermicularis is known to be associated with appendicitis, however a causal relationship between Enterobius and appendicitis has not been established. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between appendiceal Enterobius and histologic appendicitis. Methods A retrospective review was performed of all pediatric appendectomies between 1997 and 2019. Patients with diagnosed with Enterobius were included for analysis. Patient demographics, operative findings, and pathologic reports were queried. Data were entered into an encrypted database and subsequently analyzed. A comprehensive review of the literature was also conducted. Results Thirty-eight cases of Enterobius-associated appendicitis were identified out of 3541 (1.07%). Grossly normal appendices at operation were seen in 27% of patients. Inflammatory infiltrate was noted on histopathology in 78.3%, and Enterobius was considered to be the cause of that inflammation in 68.4%. The comprehensive literature review revealed 19 articles (1.87% incidence) that noted 35% of patients with appendiceal Enterobius had appendicitis on either histopathology or gross evaluation. Conclusion The high rate of inflammation on pathology found among our patients with pinworm appendicitis suggests an association with presentation as acute appendicitis. Our comprehensive review revealed a higher proportion of Enterobius appendicitis. Treatment with antihelminthic therapy is recommended. Level of evidence (LOE) Level IV(4)-case series and comprehensive review.

Background Evaluation of acute appendicitis (AA) in pregnancy is supported with diagnostic imaging. Typically, ultrasound (US) is performed first, and then often followed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) due to continued diagnostic uncertainty. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of US as compared to MRI and to evaluate the inter-radiologist agreement amongst body Radiologists with varying levels of expertise. Methods We performed a retrospective study of 364 consecutive pregnant patients with clinical suspicion of AA at a single center over a 6-year period. Sensitivity, Specificity, accuracy, positive and negative predictive values were calculated for US and MRI. Inter Radiologist agreement was determined using Cohen's Kappa analysis between original interpreting Radiologist and retrospective review by expert Radiologist. Results 31 of 364 patients (8.5%) underwent appendectomy based on preoperative diagnosis, with confirmation of acute appendicitis (AA) by pathology in 19. US was able to visualize the appendix in only 6 (1.65%), 5 of whom had appendicitis. 141 patients underwent MRI, and correctly diagnosed appendicitis in 9. No patient with a negative MRI diagnosis had AA. The sensitivity, and negative predictive value for diagnosing AA with MRI was 100%. The MRI inter-reader agreement for appendix visualization and overall accuracy were 87.9 and 98% with Cohen Kappa of 0.7 and 0.56 respectively. Conclusion Our data suggests that MRI should be considered the first line imaging modality in pregnant patients suspected of having AA. Body Radiologists with varied levels of experience in MRI readouts had substantial agreement.

Introduction Laparoscopy is used in as many as 95% of adult appendicectomies. There is level I evidence showing that it reduces wound infection, postoperative ileus and length of inpatient stay in children compared with the open approach. The aim of this study was to report the uptake of laparoscopy for paediatric appendicectomy in England and to determine whether this was similar for general surgeons (GS) and specialist paediatric surgeons (SPS). Methods Hospital Episode Statistics data were obtained for all children aged Results There were 196,987 appendicectomies and where specialty was available, 133,709 (79%) cases were undertaken by GS and 35,141 (21%) by SPS. The rate of cases undertaken with laparoscopy for both specialties combined increased from 0.8% in 1998 to 50% in 2014 (pConclusions There has been a vast increase in the proportion of appendicectomies undertaken laparoscopically in children. Despite adjusting for patient factors, laparoscopy was used significantly less by GS when compared with SPS. This difference is most apparent in younger children.

Background: Ten per cent of children who present with abdominal pain at an emergency department are diagnosed with acute appendicitis. The diagnosis of which relies on clinical acumen, but addition of tests such as measurement of the white cell count (WCC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) are needed to decrease the morbidity associated with inappropriate surgical management. This study evaluates the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the WCC and CRP separately and when used in combination and evaluates whether an increased WCC and CRP are associated with complicated appendicitis. Methods: A retrospective record review of all paediatric patients who underwent appendicectomy between June 2010 and December 2016 was conducted. Demographic data, the WCC, CRP and histology results were reviewed. Results: 763 records were reviewed. The sensitivity and specificity of the WCC were 69.6% and 43.1% respectively and of the CRP were 95.4% and 24.5% respectively. The sensitivity was higher when both the CRP and WCC were elevated (97.47%). A normal WCC and CRP had a specificity of 98%, with an odds ratio of 8.69 of a patient not having appendicitis. There was a borderline significance between the WCC and the presence of acute appendicitis (p = 0.0494). The CRP was significant in patient with acute appendicitis (p < 0.0001). The WCC and CRP between uninflamed appendix specimens, uncomplicated appendicitis and complicated appendicitis was significant. Conclusion: Both increasing CRP and WCC correlates with an increased likelihood of the presence of complicated appendicitis. The chance of a patient having appendicitis with both normal WCC and CRP is low.

Background Laparoscopic appendectomy is standard of care for appendicitis in the US. Pain control that limits opioids is an important area of research given the opioid epidemic. This study examined post-appendectomy inpatient opioid use and pain scores following intraoperative use of liposomal bupivacaine (LB) versus non-liposomal bupivacaine. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of 155 adults who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy for acute appendicitis. Patients were divided into four cohorts based on the analgesia administered: (i) bupivacaine hydrochloride (BH)± epinephrine; (ii) undiluted LB; (iii) LB diluted with normal saline; and (iv) LB diluted with BH. Results Baseline demographic/clinical attributes, intra-operative findings, and post-operative pain scores were equivalent across cohorts. Post-operative pre-discharge opioid use was higher in the BH vs. LB cohorts (mean 60.4 vs. 46.0, 35.5, and 30.4 morphine milligram equivalents, respectively; p Conclusions Pre-emptive analgesia with LB during laparoscopic appendectomy can reduce inpatient opioid use without significantly increasing post-operative pain scores.

Background There is wide variability and considerable controversy regarding the classification of appendicitis and the need for postoperative antibiotics. This study aimed to assess interrater agreement with respect to the classification of appendicitis and its influence on the use of postoperative antibiotics amongst surgeons and surgical trainees. Methods A survey comprising 15 intraoperative images captured during appendectomy was distributed to surgeons and surgical trainees. Participants were asked to classify severity of disease (normal, inflamed, purulent, gangrenous, perforated) and whether they would prescribe postoperative antibiotics. Statistical analysis included percent agreement, Krippendorff’s alpha for interrater agreement, and logistic regression. Results In total, 562 respondents completed the survey: 206 surgical trainees, 217 adult surgeons, and 139 pediatric surgeons. For classification of appendicitis, the statistical interrater agreement was highest for categorization as gangrenous/perforated versus nongangrenous/nonperforated (Krippendorff’s alpha = 0.73) and lowest for perforated versus nonperforated (Krippendorff’s alpha = 0.45). Fourteen percent of survey respondents would administer postoperative antibiotics for an inflamed appendix, 44% for suppurative, 75% for gangrenous, and 97% for perforated appendicitis. Interrater agreement of postoperative antibiotic use was low (Krippendorff’s alpha = 0.28). The only significant factor associated with postoperative antibiotic utilization was 16 or more years in practice. Conclusions Surgeon agreement is poor with respect to both subjective appendicitis classification and objective utilization of postoperative antibiotics. This survey demonstrates that a large proportion (59%) of surgeons prescribe antibiotics after nongangrenous or nonperforated appendectomy, despite a lack of evidence basis for this practice. These findings highlight the need for further consensus to enable standardized research and avoid overtreatment with unnecessary antibiotics.

Background: Securing of the appendix stump is one of the key steps in performing laparoscopic appendicectomy (LA). This can be achieved by a variety of methods including endoloops, stapler, and cli...

BACKGROUND To date, no parameter with satisfactory accuracy exists for the diagnosis of appendicitis. This retrospective study describes the discriminatory value of preoperative hematologic factors associated with complicated and non-complicated pediatric appendicitis. METHODS Clinical and laboratory data were obtained from 294 children diagnosed with appendicitis on admission and treated at our tertiary-level pediatric hospital from 2015 to 2017; they were divided into three groups: control group (n = 118), histologically proven complicated (n = 120), and non-complicated (n = 56) appendicitis. RESULTS Complicated appendicitis was associated with male preponderance and elevated neutrophil and monocyte levels (all p

Background Laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) is the preferred approach in uncomplicated appendicitis. However, in patients with complicated appendicitis (CA), the best approach is still unclear though laparoscopy is being increasingly preferred over open appendicectomy (OA) nowadays. Aim To comprehensively review the current literature and compare the associations of LA and OA concerning various postoperative outcomes in order to determine the best approach for children with CA. Methods The PRISMA guidelines were adhered to and an electronic database search was extensively performed. Data analysis, including subgroup analysis of randomized-control trials, was performed using RevMan 5.3. Methodological and statistical heterogeneity, as well as publication bias of the included studies, were assessed. Results Four randomized controlled trials (266 LA versus 354 OA) and thirty-six case-controlled trials (2580 LA versus 3043 OA) were included in the analysis. Compared to OA, LA has a shorter length of stay, a lower rate of surgical site infection as well as a significantly lower overall complication rate. The rates of intraabdominal abscess formation, post-operative fever, pneumonia and ileus are similar in the two groups. So are the rates of readmissions and reoperations. LA was also shown to have a shorter time taken to oral intake and a lesser requirement of analgesics as well as intravenous antibiotics. Operative time for OA was found to be significantly shorter than that for LA. Conclusion This meta-analysis objectively demonstrates that laparoscopy has a better overall complication profile compared to OA and should be the procedure of choice in children with complicated appendicitis.

Background Yersinia infection affects terminal ileum and lymph nodes and could therefore mimic the symptoms of appendicitis. We aimed to systematically characterise the suspected or confirmed abdominal diseases and/or surgeries associated with Yersinia infection. Materials and methods This systematic review and meta-analysis was reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A protocol (CRD42016053252) was uploaded to PROSPERO. The searches were conducted in PubMed and EMBASE on October 2, 2020. Original reports on patients with abdominal surgical diseases were included. The primary outcome was to characterise suspected or confirmed abdominal surgical diseases and/or surgeries associated with Yersinia infection, while the secondary outcomes were the positive rate of Yersinia species for each disease and surgery, and to investigate the rate of Yersinia spp. in different geographic regions. We calculated the weighted mean prevalence of positive tests for Yersinia spp. for the different diseases and surgeries according to the detection method and for subgroups based on geographic region. Results From the search, 33 studies were included in the systematic review and 18 in the meta-analysis. Across geographic regions, the weighted mean prevalence for Yersinia spp. was 51% (95% CI 34%-69%) in mesenteric lymphadenitis, 65% (95% CI 45%-85%) in terminal ileitis, and 8% (95% CI 2%-15%) in normal appendices. Conclusions Around half of the patients with mesenteric lymphadenitis and terminal ileitis were serologically positive for infections with Yersinia spp. Yersinia infection may cause unnecessary surgery for suspected appendicitis due to symptoms from mesenteric lymphadenitis or terminal ileitis.

There are significant practice variations in antibiotic treatment for appendicitis, ranging from short-course narrow spectrum to long-course broad-spectrum. We sought to describe the modern microbial epidemiology of acute and perforated appendicitis in adults to help inform appropriate empiric coverage and support antibiotic stewardship initiatives.This is a post-hoc secondary analysis of the Multicenter Study of the Treatment of Appendicitis in America: Acute, Perforated, and Gangrenous (MUSTANG) which prospectively enrolled adult patients (age ≥ 18 years) diagnosed with appendicitis between January 2017 and June 2018 across 28 centers in the United States. We included all subjects with positive microbiologic cultures during primary or secondary (rescue after medical failure) appendectomy or percutaneous drainage. Culture yield was compared between low- and high-grade appendicitis as per the AAST classification.A total of 3,471 patients were included: 230 (7%) had cultures performed, and 179/230 (78%) had positive results. Cultures were less likely to be positive in grade 1 compared to grades 3, 4, or 5 appendicitis with 2/18 (11%) vs 61/70 (87%) (p.001). Only 1 subject had grade 2 appendicitis and culture results were negative. E. coli was the most common pathogen and cultured in 29 (46%) of primary appendectomy samples, 16 (50%) of secondary, and 44 (52%) of percutaneous drainage samples.Culturing low-grade appendicitis is low yield. E. coli is the most commonly cultured microbe in acute and perforated appendicitis. This data helps inform empiric coverage for both antibiotics alone and as an adjunct to operative or percutaneous intervention.

Purpose We aim to assess the healthcare value achieved from a shared savings program for pediatric appendectomy. Methods All appendectomy patients covered by our health plan were included. Quality targets were 15% reduction in time to surgery, length of stay, readmission rate, and patient satisfaction. Quality targets and costs for an appendectomy episode in two 6-month performance periods (PP1, PP2) were compared to baseline. Results 640 patients were included (baseline:317, PP1:167, PP2:156). No quality targets were met in PP1. Two quality targets were met during PP2: readmission rate (−57%) and patient satisfaction. No savings were realized because the cost reduction threshold (−9%) was not met during PP1 (+1.7%) or PP2 (−0.4%). Conclusions Payer-provider partnerships can be a platform for testing value-based reimbursement models. Setting achievable targets, identifying affectable quality metrics, considering case mix index, and allowing sufficient time for interventions to generate cost savings should be considered in future programs.

Published data demonstrate that management of uncomplicated pediatric appendicitis with antibiotics-alone is safe and frequently successful. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing antibiotics-alone to appendectomy are lacking, alongside insight into drivers of failure. We sought to validate the antibiotics-alone approach and identify barriers to success using an RCT design.Patients aged 6-17 years with uncomplicated appendicitis were randomized to appendectomy or intravenous piperacillin/tazobactam for 24-48 h followed by 10 days of oral ciprofloxacin/metronidazole. Enrollment required symptoms48 h, WBC18, appendiceal diameter11 mm, and radiographic absence of perforation. Lack of clinical improvement or persistently elevated WBC resulted in appendectomy. Primary outcomes were 1-year success rate of antibiotics-alone and quality-of-life measures.Among 39 children enrolled over 31 months, 20 were randomized to antibiotics-alone and 19 to surgery. At 1 year, 6 nonoperative patients underwent appendectomy (70% success). Four cases were not true antibiotic failures but instead reflected "pragmatic" challenges to executing nonoperative algorithms. Only 2 cases represented recurrent/refractory appendicitis, suggesting a 90% adjusted 1-year success rate. Parental PedsQL™ scores were similar between treatment cohorts (91.3 vs 90.2, P = 0.32). Children treated with antibiotics-alone had faster return to activity (2.0 vs 12 days, P = 0.001) and fewer parental missed work days (0.0 vs 2.5, P = 0.03).These data corroborate findings from non-randomized studies suggesting 70-90% of uncomplicated pediatric appendicitis can be treated with antibiotics-alone, with fewer disability days. Failures appear multifactorial, often reflecting practical hurdles and not antibiotic limitations. As surgeons consider nonoperative protocols for uncomplicated appendicitis, these data further inform the variability of treatment success.1; randomized controlled trial.

Background The rate of surgical site infection (SSI) after appendectomy for complicated appendicitis (CA) was high at our children's hospital. We hypothesized that practice standardization, including obtaining intra-operative cultures of abdominal fluid in patients with CA, would improve outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization after appendectomy. Methods A quality improvement team designed and implemented a clinical practice guideline for CA that included obtaining intra-operative culture of purulent fluid, administering piperacillin/tazobactam for at least 72 h post-operatively, and transitioning to oral antibiotics based on intraoperative culture data. We compared outcomes before and after guideline implementation. Results From July 2018-October 2019, 63 children underwent appendectomy for CA compared to 41 children from January-December 2020. Compliance with our process measures are as follows: Intra-operative culture was obtained in 98% of patients post-implementation; 95% received at least 72 h of piperacillin-tazobactam; and culture results were checked on all patients. Culture results altered the choice of discharge antibiotics in 12 (29%) of patients. All-cause morbidity (SSI, emergency department visit, readmission to hospital, percutaneous drain, unplanned return to operating room) decreased significantly from 35% to 15% (p=0.02). Surgical site infections became less frequent, occurring on average every 27 days pre-implementation and every 60 days after care pathway implementation (p=0.03). Conclusions Utilization of a clinical practice guideline was associated with reduced morbidity after appendectomy for CA. Intra-operative fluid culture during appendectomy for CA appears to facilitate the selection of appropriate post-operative antibiotics and, thus, minimize SSIs and overall morbidity.

Background Two surgical strategies are available for appendicitis: emergency laparoscopic appendectomy and interval laparoscopic appendectomy. However, timing of surgical intervention remains debatable. This study aimed to compare the surgical outcomes of emergency laparoscopic appendectomy and interval laparoscopic appendectomy and conduct a questionnaire survey to investigate the use of emergency laparoscopic appendectomy and patient satisfaction with regard to treatment. Methods We included 162 patients who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy at our hospital. Outcomes were assessed by operation time, blood loss, postoperative fasting time, length of hospital stay, and complication rate. Patient satisfaction was measured by questionnaire addressing degree of satisfaction, presurgery anxiety, and length of hospital stay. Results Of 162 patients, 74 (46%) and 88 (54%) received emergency and interval laparoscopic appendectomy, respectively. No significant difference was observed in the operation time, blood loss, length of hospital stay, or complication rate. Among 66 patients who responded to the questionnaire (28 emergency, 38 interval), a significant difference was observed only in the degree of satisfaction regarding the timing of the surgical intervention (p = 0.04). Conclusion Surgical outcomes of emergency and interval appendectomy were equivalent; however, patient satisfaction favored emergency appendectomy, suggesting it is a preferable approach for the treatment of uncomplicated appendicitis.

Appendicitis is a common childhood condition requiring surgical intervention and delayed diagnosis can have serious consequences. This report describes the case of a child who presented with an acute abdomen and intestinal obstruction. Multidetector (MD) CT demonstrated a left-sided caecum and an inflamed appendix with a faecolith. Maximum intensity projection (MIP) post-processing was key in identifying the appendicular artery and determine the diagnosis. At surgery, however, a mobile caecum and the appendix were positioned on the right side.

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is a rare inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. Although commonly associated with allergic diseases, it is also rarely associated with autoimmune disorders. This case report describes a 17-year-old Filipino male with eosinophilic gastroenteritis, manifesting as abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhoea. He had no allergic diseases, but he was previously diagnosed with chronic bullous disease. His symptoms improved with the initiation of corticosteroids. To date, this is the first case report of a patient with eosinophilic gastroenteritis and chronic bullous disease.

A 39-year-old multiparous Afro-Caribbean woman attended the emergency department with sudden-onset severe right iliac fossa pain. Her inflammatory markers were mildly elevated. Computerised tomography of the abdomen demonstrated features of fat stranding in the right iliac fossa suspicious of acute appendicitis. The scan also noted uterine leiomyomas. The patient was taken to theatre for an emergency diagnostic laparoscopy where her appendix was found to be macroscopically normal. A necrotic heavily calcified parasitic leiomyoma was seen in the right adnexa, free of the uterus and adherent to the greater omentum on a long torted pedicle. The parasitic leiomyoma was successfully removed piecemeal laparoscopically. Complications of leiomyomas, namely, torsion and necrosis, are important differentials in women presenting with sudden-onset lower abdominal pain. A history of sudden-onset severe lower abdominal pain with a background of known leiomyoma should prompt the clerking surgeon to consider a complication of leiomyoma as part of the differential diagnoses.

Aim Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare severe complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection, has been recently reported to mimic acute abdomen and lead to surgical interventions, posing challenges for clinicians. In this systematic review, we evaluated the rate of acute abdomen and abdominal surgical emergencies in children with MIS-C. Methods Systematic review of all MIS-C cases presented with acute abdomen. Results A total of 385 patients with MIS-C, from 38 studies were included. Gastrointestinal manifestations were prominent in 233/385 (60.5%) children. Acute abdomen was noted in 72/385 (18.7%) of MIS-C cases and in 72/233 (30.9%) of MIS-C cases with gastrointestinal symptoms. Final diagnoses were mostly non-surgical (55/72, 76.4%), such as mesenteric lymphadenitis (23/72, 31.9%), terminal ileitis/ileocolitis (19/72, 26.4%), free abdominal fluid/ascites (8/72, 11.1%) and paralytic ileus (3/72, 4.2%). Laparotomy was performed in 35/72 (48.6%) of children with MIS-C and acute abdomen and was proven unnecessary in 18/35 (51.4%) cases. True abdominal surgical emergencies, such as appendicitis and obstructive ileus, were confirmed in 17/72 (23.6 %) cases. Conclusion MIS-C often presents with acute abdomen, mostly due to non-surgical intestinal inflammatory pathology. However, surgical complications occur in patients with MIS-C, therefore a high index of suspicion should remain.

Nonoperative management (NOM) of acute appendicitis is becoming more popular, especially in resource-strapped locations, to minimize hospital system costs. In uncomplicated cases of appendicitis, NOM can effectively treat the patient. It does carry a 39.1% risk of recurrence in 5 years, and operative management (OM) does not increase morbidity or risk of complication, so the authors recommend laparoscopic OM for uncomplicated appendicitis. For complicated cases of appendicitis, the authors recommend initial NOM with interval appendectomy in all patients. All appendicitis patients should undergo surveillance endoscopy if older than 40 years to rule out a contributing neoplasm.

Background Ultrasound is an established imaging modality in general surgery. With the increasing use of bedside point-of-care ultrasounds, general surgeons have been incorporating this skill into their clinical practice. This systematic review provides an up-to-date summary of the evidence for abdominal ultrasound scans performed by general surgeons to diagnose intra-abdominal pathology. Methods Two independent reviewers searched the PubMed database between 1 January 1980 and 1 June 2020. Articles about surgeon-performed abdominal ultrasound in adult patients were included. Studies on trauma and vascular surgery were excluded. Results 26 articles met the inclusion criteria, presented as a narrative analysis. There was good evidence for the use of surgeon-performed ultrasound, particularly in gallstone-related diseases and moderate evidence for the use of ultrasound in appendicitis. Further evidence is required for point-of-care ultrasounds for other pathologies such as diverticulitis and groin hernias. Ultrasound training for general surgeons is variable with notable heterogeneity across studies. Conclusion A standardised training programme for general surgeons will greatly improve confidence and skill. There is good evidence for the use of bedside ultrasound by general surgeons in the acute and elective setting with reduced time to definitive treatment and fewer unnecessary hospital admissions.

Background Whether peritoneal lavage is beneficial for the postoperative outcomes of appendectomy is debatable. This study is a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that aimed to determine whether peritoneal lavage leads to improved appendectomy outcomes. Methods PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for articles published before September 2020. The meta-analysis calculated the pooled effect size by using a random effects model. The primary outcome was the incidence of intra-abdominal abscess. Secondary outcomes were the incidence of surgical-site infection, hospital stay duration, operation time, and readmission incidence. Results Eight RCTs involving 1487 patients were reviewed. The lavage group had a nonsignificantly lower incidence of intra-abdominal abscess (risk ratio [RR]: 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.55–1.18) and surgical-site infection (RR: 0.73; 95% CI: 0.31–1.72) than did the nonirrigation group. Furthermore, the lavage group showed a nonsignificantly shorter hospital stay duration and lower readmission incidence than did the nonirrigation group. However, the lavage group required significantly more operation time than did the nonirrigation group (mean difference: 7.59 min; 95% CI: 4.67–10.50). Conclusion Our study revealed that performing peritoneal lavage has no advantage over suction or drainage only in appendectomy. Moreover, peritoneal lavage significantly increased operation time. Consequently, for improving efficiency and reducing operation time, we suggest skipping peritoneal irrigation during appendectomy. However, the available evidence is of variable quality; therefore, high-quality prospective RCTs are required in the future.

Introduction Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) was declared a pandemic in March 2020. States issued stay-at-home orders and hospitals cancelled non-emergent surgeries. During this time, we anecdotally noticed more admissions for perforated appendicitis. Therefore, we hypothesized that during the months following the COVID-19 pandemic declaration, more children were presenting with perforated appendicitis. Materials and Methods This is a retrospective cohort study reviewing pediatric patients admitted at a single institution with acute and/or perforated appendicitis between October 2019 to May 2020. Interval appendectomies were excluded. COVID-19 months were designated as March, April, and May 2020. Additional analysis of March, April, and May 2019 was performed for comparison purposes. Analyzed data included demographics, symptoms, white blood cell count, imaging findings, procedures performed, and perforation status. Statistical analysis was performed. Results During the study period, 285 patients were admitted with the diagnosis of acute appendicitis with 95 patients being perforated. We identified a significant increase in perforated appendicitis cases in the three COVID-19 months compared with the preceding five months (45.6% vs 26.4%; P

Despite efforts to incorporate ultrasound into the evaluation of children for appendicitis, computed tomography (CT) is often used to aid in its diagnosis. CT scans, however, expose children to a considerable amount of radiation. In 2017, our institution began using a height-based Focused CT protocol for children with suspected appendicitis in need of CT.To compare the radiation dose received by children with suspected appendicitis who underwent a Standard CT of the abdomen and pelvis (CTAP) with that of a Focused CT.We conducted a retrospective study of children18 years who underwent a CT scan for suspected appendicitis (2014-2020). We included all patients whose indication for CT was "appendicitis" or "right lower quadrant pain" and excluded those whose CT scan record lacked a radiation dose report. The effective radiation dose delivered was calculated using the dose-length product from the dose report. We compared the effective dose of those who received a Standard CTAP to those who received a Focused CT. To account for differences in radiation dose over time and by CT scanner, analyses were adjusted for CT dose index volume (CTDIA total of 474 patients who underwent CT were included. Prior to CT, 362(76%) had received an ultrasound. In total, 309(65%) patients underwent a Standard CTAP and 165(35%) underwent a Focused CT. The appendix was identified in 259(84%) Standard CTAPs compared to 151(92%) Focused CTs (p = 0.02). Compared to the Standard CTAP, children who received a Focused CT were exposed to a significantly lower effective dose (relative difference: CTDI-adjusted -13%[95% CI:-21,-5]; SSDE-adjusted -14%[95% CI:-24,-3]).Our height-based Focused CT protocol reduces radiation for children undergoing CT evaluation for suspected appendicitis without sacrificing diagnostic accuracy. Further study is needed to validate these findings at other institutions.

Aims The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to compare outcomes of single-port laparoscopic appendicectomy (SPLA) and conventional three-port laparoscopic appendicectomy (CLA) in the management of acute appendicitis. Methods A comprehensive systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with subsequent meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of outcomes were conducted. Post-operative pain at 12-h, cosmesis, need for an additional port(s), operative time, port-site hernia, ileus, surgical site infection (SSI), intra-abdominal collection, length of hospital stay (LOS), readmission, and reoperation were the evaluated outcome parameters. Results Sixteen RCTs with total number of 2017 patients who underwent SPLA (n = 1009) or CLA (n = 1008) were included. SPLA was associated with a significantly higher cosmetic score (MD 1.11, P= 0.03) but significantly longer operative time (MD 7.08, P = 0.00001) compared to CLA. However, the difference was not significant between SPLA and CLA in the post-operative pain score at 12-h (MD −0.13, P = 0.69), need for additional port(s) (RR0.03, P = 0.07), port-site hernia (RD: 0.00, P = 0.68), ileus (RR 0.74, P = 0.51), SSI (RR 1.38, P = 0.28), post-operative intra-abdominal collection (RR 0.00, P = 0.62), LOS (MD −2.41, P = 0.16), readmission to the hospital (RR 0.45, P = 0.22), and return to theatre (RR 0.00, P = 0.49). Trial sequential analysis demonstrated that the meta-analysis is conclusive for most of the outcomes, except LOS and intra-abdominal collection. Conclusion Although SPLA is associated with a slightly longer operative time, its efficacy and safety are comparable to CLA in management of uncomplicated appendicitis. Moreover, it offers improved post-operative cosmesis. The available evidence is conclusive, and further trials may not be required.

Background Non-operative management is often the treatment of choice in cases of complicated appendicitis and routine interval appendectomy is not usually recommended. Actually, recent studies show an alarming number of appendiceal neoplasms following interval appendectomy. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of appendiceal neoplasms and their histological types after interval appendectomy for complicated appendicitis in adults. Methods A comprehensive literature search of the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases was conducted according to the PRISMA statement. Studies reporting appendiceal neoplasm rates after interval appendectomy and histopathological characteristics were included. The most recent World Health Organization (WHO) classification of malignant tumours was considered. A pooled prevalence analysis for both prevalence and pathology was performed. Results A total of eight studies was included: seven retrospective series and one randomized controlled trial. The pooled prevalence of neoplasms after interval appendectomy was 11% (95% CI 7-15; I2 = 37.5%, p = 0.13). Appendiceal mucinous neoplasms occurred in 43% (95% CI 19-68), adenocarcinoma in 29% (95% CI 6-51), appendiceal neuroendocrine neoplasm in 21% (95% CI 6-36), globet cell carcinoma in 13% (95% CI -2-28), adenoma or serrated lesions in 20% (95% CI -0-41) of cases. Conclusion The risk of appendiceal neoplasm in patients treated with interval appendectomy for complicated appendicitis is 11%; mucinous neoplasm is the most common histopathological type. Further studies should investigate this association in order to clarify the biological pathway and clinical implications.

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate Harmonic scalpel performance in laparoscopic appendectomy for sealing the base of the appendix in children. Methods: During the study period, a total of 312 patients who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy were included in prospective bicenter clinical trial. The patients were divided in two study groups in regard to technique used for appendiceal base closure. In the first group (n = 197) the appendiceal base was secured using a polymeric clip while in the second group (n = 115) the Harmonic scalpel was used for sealing the base in a stepwise manner, without placing any clip or suture. Outcomes of treatment, including complication rates, duration of surgery and length of hospital stay were compared between the groups. Results: A total of 312 patients with a median age of 11 years (IQR 8, 15) were included in study. Of these, 191 were males (61.2%). Both groups were symmetric in regard to baseline characteristics of the patients. A total of 10 (5.1%) postoperative complications (postoperative abscess n = 7 and ileus n = 3) were recorded in the polymeric clip group while none of the patients from the clipless group had postoperative complications (P = 0.015). In the group who received a polymeric clip appendectomy, fever lasting 0–72 h and > 72 h was recorded in 16 (8.1%) and 12 (6.1%) children, respectively, while in the clipless group, it was observed in 2 (1.7%) and 5 (4.3%) children, respectively (P = 0.048). Significantly shorter surgical times were found in the clipless group compared to the polymeric clip group (21 min (IQR 18, 25) vs. 30 min (IQR 22, 40), P < 0.0001). Also, length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the clipless group of the patients (2 days (IQR 2, 3) vs. 3 days (IQR 2, 4), P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Clipless harmonic scalpel laparoscopic appendectomy is a safe and effective method in children for treatment of acute appendicitis with lesser number of complications and shorter duration of surgery compared to laparoscopic appendectomy in which the appendiceal base is secured with clip.

Background and Aim: Mesenteric lymphadenitis in pediatric population usually presents with abdominal pain mimicking appendicitis mounting a challenging task for physicians to diagnose. It is a self-limiting inflammatory process and resolves spontaneously. In addition to clinical features, ultrasonography is the primary diagnostic modality. We aimed to evaluate the clinico-radiological characteristics of mesenteric adenitis in patients presenting with abdominal pain. Materials and Methods: A total of 108 patients attending paediatric out-patient and paediatric surgery clinic in Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, between January 2018 and December 2020 with abdominal pain for several aetiologies were included in this study. The clinical presentation, laboratory parameters and the ultrasonographic findings were noted. Data summarized as numbers, percentages and Mean ± Standard Deviation (SD). Results: Peak prevalence was found to be at around 8 [range 6-10] years. Clinically, 58.3% had fever, 40.7% had dysuria and 36.1% had diarrhoea. Laboratory parameters were non-specific for this condition. Majority of the enlarged lymph nodes were found in the right lower quadrant (81.5%) followed by (10.2%) in the para-umbilical region and (8.3%) in left lower quadrant. Conclusions: Mesenteric lymphadenitis as an individual clinical entity is a very challenging task for the paediatricians to evaluate and diagnose due to several possible variations in the clinical presentation. Although mesenteric lymphadenitis is usually a self limiting entity, a cohort of children warrant medical interventions.

Introduction. Jod-Basedow Syndrome refers to a paradoxical phenomenon in which large loads of iodine can cause hyperthyroidism. It is most commonly seen in populations already at risk for thyroid disease or those with underlying kidney disease. Case Presentation. We present a case of an acutely ill 17-year-old boy with symptomatic hyperthyroidism following an iodinated contrast CT scan to rule out appendicitis. Discussion/Conclusion. This case underscores the importance of recognizing this phenomenon even in the pediatric population and in those with no preexisting history of thyroid disease. Course complications including bronchospasm, hypertension, transaminitis, and bilateral palmar desquamating rash are rare and highlight the complexities involved in the disease state and in managing side effect profiles of treatment.

Acute abdominal pain is one of the commonest prevalent grievances in children, and it frequently requires emergency room diagnosis and management. Abdominal pain in children differs with age, concomitant symptoms, and pain site. While most cases of acute abdominal embarrassment are self-limiting and benevolent, there are certain diseases that can be life-threatening and necessitate instant care, such as appendicitis, intussusception, or intestinal obstruction. To decide the cause of acute abdominal pain and recognize children with surgical conditions, scrupulous history taking and numerous physical checkups are mandatory.The most important and realistic first goal in the evaluation of acute AP is to distinguish between surgical and nonsurgical situations, which are further divided into urgent and non-urgent categories. A thorough history and physical examination, laboratory investigations to evaluate comorbidity, and imaging scans are usually used for these purposes. Management decisions should necessitate teamwork between the emergency room physician, a surgeon, and a radiologist. Consecutivereassessment and symptomatic treatment with hardworking follow-up are necessary for management as soon aspossible in urgent disorder.

Background Contrast-enhanced CT is the reference standard used in diagnostic imaging for acute appendicitis in adults. The radiation dose has been of concern. This study aimed to assess whether a lower radiation dose would affect the diagnostic accuracy of CT. Methods This was a prospective single-centre cohort study of patients (aged over 16 years) with suspected appendicitis evaluated for enrolment in concurrent APPAC II–III trials. The diagnostic accuracy of contrast-enhanced low- and standard-dose CT was compared with study protocols guiding imaging based on BMI; this enabled direct CT imaging comparison only in patients with a BMI below 30 kg/m2. The on-call CT diagnosis was compared with the final clinical diagnosis. Results Among all 856 patients investigated, the accuracy of low-dose (454 patients) and standard-dose (402 patients) CT in identifying patients with and without appendicitis was 98·0 and 98·5 per cent respectively. In patients with a BMI under 30 kg/m2, respective values were 98·2 per cent (434 patients) and 98·6 per cent (210 patients) (P = 1·000). The corresponding accuracy for differentiating between uncomplicated and complicated acute appendicitis was 90·3 and 87·6 per cent in all patients, and 89·8 and 88·4 per cent respectively among those with a BMI below 30 kg/m2 (P = 0·663). The median radiation dose in the whole low- and standard-dose CT groups was 3 and 7 mSv respectively. In the group with BMI below 30 kg/m2, corresponding median doses were 3 and 5 mSv (P Conclusion Low- and standard-dose CT were accurate both in identifying appendicitis and in differentiating between uncomplicated and complicated acute appendicitis. Low-dose CT was associated with a significant radiation dose reduction, suggesting that it should be standard clinical practice at least in patients with a BMI below 30 kg/m2.

Background Previous studies have indicated that the appendix may be a priming site of ulcerative colitis (UC). Appendectomy is inversely associated with the development of UC, and is suggested to have a beneficial effect on the disease course in patients with refractory disease. Objective The aim of the current study was to assess histological features of appendices from patients with UC and their clinical relevance. Methods Patients with UC in remission and active UC (therapy refractory) that underwent appendectomy between 2012 and 2019 were included. Histological features of UC appendices were compared to those of patients with acute appendicitis and colon carcinoma. The Robarts Histopathology Index (RHI) was used to assess appendiceal inflammation. In patients with active UC, histological and clinical characteristics were compared between patients with and without endoscopic response following appendectomy. Results In total, 140 appendix specimens were assessed (n = 35 UC remission, n = 35 active UC, n = 35 acute appendicitis, n = 35 colon carcinoma). Histological features of appendices from UC patients looked like UC rather than acute appendicitis. The presence of active appendiceal inflammation was comparable between patients in remission versus active disease (53.7% vs. 46.3%, p = 0.45) and limited versus extensive disease (58.5% vs. 41.5%, p = 0.50). Endoscopic response (Mayo 0-1) following appendectomy, assessed in 28 therapy refractory patients, was more frequently seen in patients with higher RHI scores (RHI > 6: 81.8% vs. RHI ≤ 6: 9.1%, p = 0.03) and limited disease (proctitis/left sided 63.6% vs. pancolitis 36.4%, p = 0.02). Conclusion The presence of active appendiceal inflammation is common in UC and does not correlate with colonic disease activity. More than 50% of UC patients in remission showed active histological disease in the appendix. Favorable response to appendectomy for refractory UC was seen in cases with ulcerative appendicitis. These findings might support the role of the appendix as a pivotal organ in UC.

Background Evidence suggests severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may be associated with appendicitis or clinical symptoms that mimic appendicitis, but it is not clear if the findings or utility of imaging in pediatric patients with suspected appendicitis have changed since the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Objective To evaluate for potential differences in SARS-CoV-2 positive and SARS-CoV-2 negative pediatric patients imaged for suspected appendicitis to determine the reliability of the existing medical imaging approach for appendicitis in a population that contains both SARS-CoV-2 positive and SARS-CoV-2 negative pediatric patients. Materials and methods Patients imaged for suspected appendicitis Apr. 1, 2020, to Dec. 31, 2020, were identified via an electronic medical records search. Differences in ultrasound (US) diagnostic performance, use of computed tomography (CT) following US, rates of appendicitis, imaging findings of appendicitis and perforation were compared between SARS-CoV-2 positive and SARS-CoV-2 negative tested patients, using pathology and surgery as reference standards for appendicitis and perforation, respectively. Fisher exact test and Student’s t-test were used for statistical analysis. Results One thousand, six hundred and ninety-three patients

A hepatic abscess is a rare condition which can have multiple etiologies, including biliary disease, intra-abdominal collections (appendicitis, diverticulitis, and inflammatory bowel disease), abdominal surgery, liver transplantation, and liver trauma. The diagnosis is primarily based on imaging findings of ultrasound and computed tomography scan. Management includes antibiotics and percutaneous drainage or surgical drainage of the abscess. Here, we present a case of a 43-year-old Hispanic female who initially presented with left lower quadrant and right upper quadrant abdominal pain for 1 week. She was found to have a hepatic abscess and pelvic abscess likely secondary to perforated diverticulum. J Med Cases. 2021;12(11):438-441 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jmc3762

Background: The aim of this study was to describe and analyze the current status of the diagnosis and management of acute appendicitis in China. Patients and Methods: An online record system was us...

The management of complicated appendicitis remains controversial, since this disease has various clinical presentations and is associated with high rates of adverse events. Although initial nonoperative treatment is generally employed for complicated appendicitis, its clinical presentation and the predictors of nonoperative treatment failure are unclear.Patients diagnosed with complicated appendicitis in our hospital between April 2015 and March 2020 were enrolled. In total, 113 patients were classified into three categories: emergency appendectomy, failure of nonoperative treatment and successful nonoperative treatment. The primary outcome was the rate of failure of nonoperative treatment, as assessed by logistic regression analysis. The secondary outcomes were the operative procedures and postoperative courses of the three groups.Of 113 patients, 45 (40%) underwent emergency appendectomy, 25 (22%) failed nonoperative treatment, and 43 (38%) had successful nonoperative treatment. Among these successful cases, 38 patients (88%) underwent interval appendectomy. In multivariate analyses, the presence of a fecalith in the proximal area of the appendix was an independent risk factor for failure of nonoperative treatment (odds ratio, 20.5; 95% confidence interval, 4.37-95.7, P0.001). Postoperative outcomes were more unfavorable in cases of failed nonoperative treatment than in cases of emergency and interval appendectomy.The presence of a fecalith in the proximal area of the appendix is an independent predictor for failure of nonoperative treatment for complicated appendicitis in adults. Patients with this risk factor should be considered candidates for surgical treatment.

Objectives Children are often transferred to a Pediatric Emergency Department (PED) for definitive care after completion of diagnostic imaging. There is a paucity of data on the concordance rates of interpretation of imaging studies between referral and PED. Our objective is to describe the rates and clinical impact of discordant interpretation of X-rays and CT in children transferred to a PED. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of patients over a 12-month period from 12/1/2017–11/30/2018 with X-ray (XR) and CT performed prior to transfer to our PED. We compared referral radiology interpretations to those of pediatric radiologists to determine concordance. Encounters with discordant imaging interpretations were further evaluated for clinical impact (none, minor or major) based on need for additional laboratory workup, consultation, and changes in management and disposition. Results We analyzed 899 patient encounters. There were high rates of concordance in both XR and CT interpretation (668/743; 89.9%, 95% CI 0.87–0.91 and 205/235; 87.2%, 95% CI 0.82–0.91, respectively). XR discordance resulted in minor clinical impact in 34 patients (45%, 95% CI 0.35–0.57) and a major clinical impact in 28 patients (37%, 95% CI 0.27–0.49). CT discordance resulted in minor clinical impact in 10 patients (33%, 95% CI 0.19–0.51) of patients and major clinical impact in 15 patients (50%, 95% CI 0.33–0.67). The most common discordances with major clinical impact were related to pneumonia on XR chest and appendicitis or inflammatory bowel disease on CT abdomen. Conclusions In patients transferred to the PED, concordance of XR and CT interpretations was high. A majority of discordant interpretations led to clinical impact meaningful to the patient and emergency medicine (EM) physician. Referring EM physicians might consider the benefit of pediatric radiology consultation upon transfer, especially for imaging diagnoses related to pneumonia, appendicitis, or inflammatory bowel disease.

The omphalomesenteric duct is an embryologic structure that connects the yolk sac with the primitive midgut of the developing fetus. Omphalomesenteric duct anomalies include a group of entities that result from failed resorption of the omphalomesenteric duct. These anomalies include Meckel diverticulum, omphalomesenteric fistula, fibrous bands, cysts, and umbilical polyps. Meckel diverticulum is the most common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract and is usually asymptomatic. Symptoms develop when Meckel diverticulum involves complications such as hemorrhage, inflammation, and perforation, or when it causes intussusception or bowel obstruction. Hemorrhage is the most common complication of Meckel diverticulum, and technetium 99m-pertechnetate scintigraphy is the imaging modality of choice for detecting acute bleeding. US and CT are commonly used for the evaluation of patients with other complications such as obstruction and inflammation. Nevertheless, the diagnosis of these complications can be challenging, as their clinical manifestations are usually nonspecific and can masquerade as other acute intraabdominal entities such as appendicitis, inflammatory bowel disease, or other causes of bowel obstruction. There are other umbilical disorders, such as urachal remnants and umbilical granuloma, that may present with symptoms and imaging findings similar to those of omphalomesenteric duct anomalies. An accurate preoperative diagnosis of omphalomesenteric duct anomaly is crucial for appropriate management and a better outcome, particularly when these anomalies manifest as a life-threatening condition. The authors review the anatomy, clinical features, and complications of omphalomesenteric duct anomalies in children, describing the relevant differential diagnoses and associated imaging findings seen with different imaging modalities. ©RSNA, 2021.