1
|
Shieh A, Pham PK, Plouffe NA, Heyming TW. Negative Appendectomies: Evaluating Diagnostic Imaging Techniques at General versus Pediatric Emergency Departments. J Emerg Med 2023; 64:304-310. [PMID: 36868944 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2022.12.018] [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: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although appendicitis is the most common pediatric surgical emergency, the path to diagnosis remains equivocal, with utilization of imaging modalities largely institution dependent. OBJECTIVES Our objective was to compare imaging practices and negative appendectomy rates between patients transferred from nonpediatric hospitals to our pediatric hospital and primary patients presenting directly to our institution. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed all laparoscopic appendectomy cases performed at our pediatric hospital in 2017 for imaging and histopathologic results. Two-sample z-test was used to examine negative appendectomy rates between transfer and primary patients. The negative appendectomy rates of patients who received different imaging modalities were analyzed using the Fisher's exact test. RESULTS Of 626 patients, 321 (51%) were transferred from nonpediatric hospitals. The negative appendectomy rate for transfer patients was 6.5% and 6.6% for primary patients (p = 0.99). Ultrasound (US) was the only imaging obtained in 31% of transfer and 82% of primary patients. The negative appendectomy rate of US performed at transfer hospitals compared with our pediatric institution was not significantly different (11% vs. 5%, p = 0.06). Computed tomography (CT) was the only imaging obtained in 34% of transfer and 5% of primary patients. Both US and CT were completed for 17% of transfer and 19% of primary patients. CONCLUSION The negative appendectomy rates of transfer and primary patients were not significantly different despite more frequent CT use at nonpediatric facilities. It may be valuable to encourage US utilization at adult facilities given the potential to safely reduce CT use in the evaluation of suspected pediatric appendicitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Shieh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Department of Pediatrics, University of California at Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Phung K Pham
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Claremont Graduate University, Claremont, California
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Raghavan VR, Porter JJ, Neuman MI, Lyons TW. Trends in Management of Simple Febrile Seizures at US Children's Hospitals. Pediatrics 2021; 148:peds.2021-051517. [PMID: 34670823 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-051517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to measure trends in evaluation and management of children with simple febrile seizures (SFSs) before and after the American Academy of Pediatrics updated guidelines published in 2011. METHODS In this retrospective, cross-sectional analysis, we used the Pediatric Health Information System database comprising 49 tertiary care pediatric hospitals in the United States from 2005 to 2019. We included children aged 6 to 60 months with an emergency department visit for first SFS identified using codes from the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, and International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision. RESULTS We identified 142 121 children (median age 21 months, 42.4% female) with an emergency department visit for SFS. A total of 49 668 (35.0%) children presented before and 92 453 (65.1%) after the guideline. The rate of lumbar puncture for all ages declined from 11.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 10.8% to 12.4%) in 2005 to 0.6% (95% CI, 0.5% to 0.8%) in 2019 (P < .001). Similar reductions were noted in rates of head computed tomography (10.6% to 1.6%; P < .001), complete blood cell count (38.8% to 10.9%; P < .001), hospital admission (19.2% to 5.2%; P < .001), and mean costs ($1523 to $601; P < .001). Reductions in all outcomes began before, and continued after, the publication of the American Academy of Pediatrics guideline. There was no significant change in delayed diagnosis of bacterial meningitis (preperiod 2 of 49 668 [0.0040%; 95% CI, 0.00049% to 0.015%], postperiod 3 of 92 453 [0.0032%; 95% CI, 0.00066% to 0.0094%]; P = .99). CONCLUSIONS Diagnostic testing, hospital admission, and costs decreased over the study period, without a concomitant increase in delayed diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. These data suggest most children with SFSs can be safely managed without lumber puncture or other diagnostic testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vidya R Raghavan
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - John J Porter
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mark I Neuman
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Todd W Lyons
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sams C, Ayyala RS, Swenson DW. Falling through the worm hole: an exploration of the imaging workup of the vermiform appendix in the pediatric population. BJR Open 2019; 1:20190016. [PMID: 33178945 PMCID: PMC7592479 DOI: 10.1259/bjro.20190016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the thousands of articles discussing appendicitis in the literature, the dilemma of how to best diagnosis and manage pediatric appendicitis remains unsettled. Over the past decade, evidence has been mounting about the use of antibiotics as the sole therapy in uncomplicated appendicitis in the adult population. This debate has even recently bled over into the lay press. While this change in practice pattern is still in its infancy for the pediatric population, radiologists should be aware of this change in therapy and how it can impact the imaging work-up and relevant findings. This article concisely summarizes the imaging findings and various imaging pathways to arrive at the diagnose of appendicitis with an emphasis of how to best be of use to our surgical colleagues in this evolving paradigm. It also highlights venues for further research, namely increasing accuracy of differentiating complicated from uncomplicated appendicitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra Sams
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy St, Providence
| | - Rama S Ayyala
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy St, Providence
| | - David W. Swenson
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital, 593 Eddy St, Providence
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jones RE, Gee KM, Preston SC, Babb JL, Beres AL. Diagnostic Utilization and Accuracy of Pediatric Appendicitis Imaging at Adult and Pediatric Centers. J Surg Res 2019; 240:97-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2019.02.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
5
|
Anderson KT, Bartz-Kurycki MA, Austin MT, Kawaguchi AL, Kao LS, Lally KP, Tsao K. Hospital type predicts computed tomography use for pediatric appendicitis. J Pediatr Surg 2019; 54:723-727. [PMID: 29925468 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2018.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence-based guidelines recommend ultrasound (US) over computed tomography (CT) as the primary imaging modality for suspected pediatric appendicitis. Continued high rates of CT use may result in significant unnecessary radiation exposure in children. The purpose of this study was to evaluate variables associated with preoperative CT use in pediatric appendectomy patients. METHODS A retrospective cohort study of pediatric patients who underwent appendectomy for acute appendicitis in 2015-2016 at National Surgical Quality Improvement Program for Pediatrics (NSQIP-P) hospitals was conducted. Pediatric (<18 years old) patients who underwent appendectomy for acute appendicitis in an NSQIP-P hospital from 2015 to 2016 were included. Patients were excluded if they underwent interval or incidental appendectomy or did not have a final diagnosis of appendicitis. Variables associated with imaging evaluation, including age, body mass index (BMI), race/ethnicity, gender and hospital of presentation (NSQIP-P vs. non-NSQIP-P hospital) were evaluated. The primary outcome was receipt of preoperative CT. Secondary outcomes include reimaging practices and trends over time. RESULTS 22,333 children underwent appendectomies, of which almost all were imaged preoperatively (96.5%) and 36% of whom presented initially to a non-NSQIP-P hospital. Overall, US only was the most common imaging modality (52%), followed by CT only (27%), US+CT (16%), no imaging (3%), MRI +/- CT/US (1%) and MRI only (<1%). On regression, older age (>11 years), obesity (BMI >95th percentile for age), and female gender were associated with increased odds of receiving a CT scan. However, initial presentation to a non-NSQIP-P hospital was the strongest predictor of CT use (OR 9.4, 95% CI 8.1-10.8). Reimaging after transfer was common, especially after US and MRI at a non-NSQIP-P hospital. CT use decreased between 2015 and 2016 in non-NSQIP-P hospitals but remained the same (25%) in NSQIP-P facilities. CONCLUSIONS Though patient characteristics were associated with different imaging practices, presentation at a referral, nonchildren's hospital is the strongest predictor of CT use in children with appendicitis. NSQIP-P hospitals frequently reimage transferred patients and have not reduced their CT use. Novel strategies are required for all hospital types in order to sustain reduction in CT use and mitigate unnecessary imaging. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III. TYPE OF STUDY Retrospective comparative study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Tinsley Anderson
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Houston, TX; Center for Surgical Trials and Evidence-Based Practice (C-STEP), Houston, TX.
| | - Marisa A Bartz-Kurycki
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Houston, TX; Center for Surgical Trials and Evidence-Based Practice (C-STEP), Houston, TX
| | - Mary T Austin
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Houston, TX; Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX; Center for Surgical Trials and Evidence-Based Practice (C-STEP), Houston, TX
| | - Akemi L Kawaguchi
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Houston, TX; Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX; Center for Surgical Trials and Evidence-Based Practice (C-STEP), Houston, TX
| | - Lillian S Kao
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Houston, TX; Center for Surgical Trials and Evidence-Based Practice (C-STEP), Houston, TX
| | - Kevin P Lally
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Houston, TX; Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX; Center for Surgical Trials and Evidence-Based Practice (C-STEP), Houston, TX
| | - Kuojen Tsao
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Houston, TX; Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX; Center for Surgical Trials and Evidence-Based Practice (C-STEP), Houston, TX
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Reddan T, Corness J, Harden F, Mengersen K. Paediatric appendiceal ultrasound: a survey of Australasian sonographers' opinions on examination performance and sonographic criteria. J Med Radiat Sci 2018; 65:267-274. [PMID: 30370623 PMCID: PMC6275268 DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The objectives of this study were to identify knowledge gaps and/or perceived limitations in the performance of paediatric appendiceal ultrasound by Australasian sonographers. We hypothesised that: sonographers' confidence in visualising the appendix in children was poor, particularly outside predominantly paediatric practice; workplace support for prolonging examinations to improve visualisation was limited; and the sonographic criteria applied in diagnosis did not reflect contemporary literature. METHODS A cross-sectional survey of Australasian sonographers regarding paediatric appendicitis was conducted using a mixed methods approach (quantitative and qualitative data). Text responses were analysed for key themes, and quantitative data analysed using chi-square, Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. RESULTS Of the 124 respondents, 27 (21.8%) reported a visualisation rate of less than 10%. Workplace support for extending examination time was significantly related to a higher appendix visualisation rate (χ2 (2) = 16.839, P < 0.001). Text responses reported frustration locating the appendix and a desire for more time and practice to improve visualisation. Sonographers suggested a significantly lower maximum diameter cut-off in a 5-year-old compared to a 13-year-old (Z = -6.07, P < 0.001), and considered the presence of inflamed peri-appendiceal mesentery as the most useful sonographic criterion in diagnosing acute appendicitis. CONCLUSIONS Respondents had a low opinion of their ability to confidently identify the appendix. Confidence was greater in those centres where extending scanning time was encouraged. Application of echogenic mesentery as the most significant secondary sonographic criterion is supported by recent studies. Opinions of diameter cut-offs varied, indicating potential for improved awareness of recent research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Reddan
- Medical Imaging and Nuclear MedicineLady Cilento Children's HospitalChildren's Health Queensland Hospital and Health ServiceSouth BrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
- Science and Engineering FacultyQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Jonathan Corness
- Medical Imaging and Nuclear MedicineLady Cilento Children's HospitalChildren's Health Queensland Hospital and Health ServiceSouth BrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Fiona Harden
- Hunter Industrial MedicineMaitlandNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Kerrie Mengersen
- Science and Engineering FacultyQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Diagnosing pediatric appendicitis is difficult because clinical findings are nonspecific. Improved accuracy can be obtained with ultrasound (US), CT, or MRI, despite considerable variation in their use at different institutions. This article reviews the evidence for best practices in imaging pediatric appendicitis. CONCLUSION When each modality is optimally used, a stepwise imaging approach that begins with graded compression US and proceeds to CT or MRI in select cases is currently best practice.
Collapse
|
8
|
Kobayashi E, Johnson B, Goetz K, Scanlan J, Weinsheimer R. Does the implementation of a pediatric appendicitis pathway promoting ultrasound work outside of a children's hospital? Am J Surg 2018; 215:917-920. [PMID: 29615193 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2018.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Efficacy of care pathways for pediatric appendicitis is well established in children's hospitals, but not in community Emergency Departments (EDs). METHODS A diagnostic pathway combining the Pediatric Appendicitis Score (PAS) with selective ultrasound was implemented. The charts of 2201 pediatric patients seen at four general EDs before and after implementation were retrospectively reviewed, identifying 611 children seriously considered for appendicitis. RESULTS There were no cases of missed appendicitis within the pathway cohort (0/72). Low-PAS children on pathway had fewer computed tomography (CT) scans (0% vs. 21%; p < 0.02). Moderate-PAS patients also had a reduced CT-first rate (2.4% vs. 23%; p < 0.01). However, pathway adoption in 2016 was only 24%. Correct pathway application would have avoided 58 ultrasounds and 17 CTs over three months (annual savings $281,276). CONCLUSION A pediatric appendicitis pathway is safe, rules out low suspicion patients without imaging, and is cost effective in a general hospital setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Kobayashi
- Swedish Medical Center, Swedish Pediatric Specialty Care, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Bennett Johnson
- Swedish Medical Center, Swedish Pediatric Specialty Care, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kathleen Goetz
- Swedish Medical Center, Swedish Pediatric Specialty Care, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - James Scanlan
- Swedish Medical Center, Swedish Pediatric Specialty Care, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Robert Weinsheimer
- Swedish Medical Center, Swedish Pediatric Specialty Care, Seattle, WA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|