¿Plastrón o tumor apendicular? / Plastron appendicitis or appendiceal tumor?

Un plastrón apendicular es una masa apendicular palpable que contiene el apéndice inflamado, vísceras adyacentes y el omento mayor, asociado a o no a la presencia de pus. El manejo del plastrón apendicular abscedado es controvertido. Cuando hay signos de sepsis asociados, la indicación es una intervención quirúrgica de urgencia, de lo contrario puede optarse por un tratamiento conservador. La utilización de drenaje percutáneo tiene una alta tasa de efectividad, aunque la tasa de neoplasias no detectadas presenta un porcentaje no despreciable, especialmente en los pacientes mayores de 40 años. El objetivo de esta presentación es comunicar una paciente de 65 años con diagnóstico presuntivo de plastrón apendicular abscedado quien luego del fracaso de los drenajes percutáneos fue sometida a una laparotomía exploratoria y hemicolectomía derecha. El diagnóstico histopatológico fue de adenocarcinoma mucinoso del apéndice. (AU)

A palpable inflammatory appendiceal mass may contain the inflamed appendix, adjacent viscera, and the greater omentum, associated or not with the presence of pus. The management of an inflammatory appendiceal mass is controversial. When there are associated signs of sepsis, the indication is emergency surgery, otherwise, you can opt for a conservative treatment. The use of percutaneous drainage has a high rate of effectiveness, although the rate of undetected neoplasia is not negligible, especially in patients older than 40 years. We present the case of a 65-year-old female patient with a presumptive diagnosis of an appendiceal mass with abscess, who underwent exploratory laparotomy and right hemicolectomy after percutaneous drainage failure. The histopathological diagnosis was mucinous adenocarcinoma of the appendix. (AU)

Apendicetomía electiva: caso clínico y revisión de la bibliografía / Elective appendectomy: clinical case and literature review / Apendectomia eletiva: caso clínico e revisão da literatura

Las masas inflamatorias de origen apendicular son cuadros de presentación poco frecuente, el 3 % de las apendicitis agudas. Su manejo terapéutico puede ser sistematizado en cirugía de inicio o tratamiento conservador. Este último consiste en antibioticoterapia exclusiva, o asociada al drenaje percutáneo. Es una alternativa frente a emprender una apendicectomía demandante, con riesgo de no identificar el apéndice cecal, lesión visceral y necesidad de conversión o resecciones extendidas. Sin embargo, en estos pacientes, la ausencia de la confirmación diagnóstica anatomo-patológica obliga a un seguimiento protocolizado a fin de descartar diagnósticos diferenciales de mayor relevancia pronóstica. Objetivo: Presentar el caso de un paciente en el que se realizó manejo conservador y apendicetomía electiva. Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica de las pautas de seguimiento e indicación de la apendicectomía electiva. Discusión y conclusiones: Las masas inflamatorias de origen apendicular representan un desafío diagnóstico y terapéutico, requiriendo un manejo y seguimiento específico. La indicación de apendicectomía electiva es controversial, es planteable frente a la persistencia de imágenes patológicas y dudas diagnósticas, o en pacientes con apendicitis recurrentes.

Inflammatory masses of appendiceal origin are infrequent; represent 3 % of acute appendicitis. Its therapeutic management can be systematized in initial surgery or conservative treatment. The latter consists of exclusive antibiotic therapy, or associated with percutaneous drainage. it is an alternative to undertaking a demanding appendectomy, with the risk of not identifying the cecal appendix, visceral injury, and the need for conversion or extended resections. However, the absence of pathological diagnostic confirmation requires protocolized follow-up in order to rule out differential diagnoses of greater prognostic relevance. Objective: present the case of a patient who underwent conservative management and elective appendectomy. a bibliographic review was carried out in the databases: pubmed, cochrane library, scielo and lilacs. Discussion and conclusions: inflammatory masses of appendiceal origin represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, requiring specific management and follow-up. The indication for elective appendectomy is controversial, it is considered in the presence of persistent pathological images and diagnostic doubts, or in patients with recurrent appendicitis.

Massas inflamatórias de origem apendicular são quadros de apresentação pouco frequentes, 3 % de as apendicites agudas. seu manejo terapêutico pode ser sistematizado em cirurgia inicial ou tratamento conservador. esta última consiste na antibioticoterapia exclusiva, ou associada à drenagem percutânea. é uma alternativa à realização de uma apendicectomia exigente, com risco de não identificação do apêndice cecal, lesão visceral e necessidade de conversão ou ressecções extensas. no entanto, nesses pacientes, a ausência de confirmação diagnóstica patológica requer acompanhamento protocolarizado para afastar diagnósticos diferenciais de maior relevância prognóstica. Objetivo: apresentar o caso de um paciente submetido a tratamento conservador e apendicectomia eletiva. foi realizada revisão bibliográfica nas bases de dados: pubmed, biblioteca cochrane, scielo e lilacs. Discussão e conclusões: as massas inflamatórias de origem apendicular representam um desafio diagnóstico e terapêutico, exigindo manejo e seguimento específicos. a indicação de apendicectomia eletiva é controversa, sendo considerada na presença de imagens patológicas persistentes e dúvidas diagnósticas, ou em pacientes com apendicite recorrente.

Trombosis de vena mesentérica superior como complicación de apendicitis aguda: una entidad poco frecuente / Superior mesenteric vein thrombosis as a complication of acute appendicitis: a rare entity

Las complicaciones de la apendicitis aguda ha sido ampliamente descrita en la literatura; la trombosis venosa mesenterica es una manifestación poco común de esta patologia correspondiento a menos del 1 % de frecuencia, esto puede desorientar al cirujano general al coexistir en el cuadro de apendicitis aguda. Presentamos el caso de un paciente masculino de 58 años, con dolor abdominal de 5 días de evolución, con sintomatologia poco especifica para el diagnóstico concreto de apendicitis. Se realizó una tomografía computarizada de abdomen con hallazgos de apendicitis aguda y trombososis venosa mesenterica con un coágulo de 11.5 cm. Se hizó también apendicectomia abierta y se inició anticoagulación al egreso hospitalario.

The complications of acute appendicitis have been widely described in the literature; Mesenteric venous thrombosis is a rare manifestation of this pathology corresponding to less than 1% frequency, this can confuse the general surgeon as it coexists with acute appendicitis. We present the case of a 58-year-old male patient, with abdominal pain of 5 days of evolution, with symptoms that are not very specific for the specific diagnosis of appendicitis. Computed tomography of the abdomen was performed with findings of acute appendicitis and mesenteric venous thrombosis with a clot of 11.5 cm. An open appendectomy was performed and anticoagulation was started on hospital discharge.

Apendicitis aguda y el riesgo de tumor maligno oculto. Presentación de un caso y revisión sistemática de la literatura / Acute appendicitis and the risk of hidden malignant tumor. Presentation of a case and systematic review of literature

Introducción: Los tumores apendiculares representan aproximadamente 1% de los tumores malignos del intestino grueso. Más del 50% de las neoplasias primarias del apéndice se manifiestan inicialmente como apendicitis aguda. Métodos: Se reporta caso de paciente masculino que presentó adenocarcinoma invasor en biopsia de pieza quirúrgica de apéndice cecal tras apendicectomía, tomando la decisión de realizar hemicolectomía derecha laparoscópica diferida. Discusión: En este caso y como en la mayoría de los reportes de la bibliografía mundial, el adenocarcinoma simula un cuadro de AA. En un metaanálisis y una revisión sistemática de 2.771 pacientes diagnosticados de masa apendicular inflamatoria (flemón o absceso), Andersson et al. encontró 31 con tumores malignos. Estas lesiones se detectan en el 0,9% al 1,4% de las apendicectomías realizadas para tratar la AA. Conclusión: Este subtipo histológico presenta mayor incidencia de metástasis en los ganglios linfáticos y la supervivencia global era del 47,5%. Es por ello por lo que abogamos por la resección colónica como tratamiento definitivo del adenocarcinoma de apéndice cecal.

INTRODUCTION: Appendulular tumors represent approximately 1% of malignant tumors of the large intestine. More than 50% of the primary neoplasms of the appendix initially manifest as acute appendicitis. Methods: Men's patient who presented invading adenocarcinoma in Cecal Appendix Surgical Party Biopsy after appendectomy, making the decision to perform deferred laparoscopic right hemicolectomy, is reported. Discussion: In this case and as in most world literature reports, adenocarcinoma simulates an AA picture. In a meta -analysis and a systematic review of 2,771 diagnosed patients of inflammatory appendicular mass (phlegmon or abscess), Andersson et al. He found 31 with malignant tumors. These lesions are detected at 0.9% to 1.4% of appendectomies made to treat the AA. Conclusion: This histological subtype has a greater incidence of metastasis in lymph nodes and global survival was 47.5%. That is why we advocate colonic resection as a definitive treatment of cecal appendix adenocarcinoma.

Hernia de Garengeot / Garengeot's Hernia

Introducción: La hernia de Garengeot es una de las hernias de la pared abdominal más infrecuente del mundo. Objetivo: Presentar una paciente con diagnóstico de hernia crural, con el apéndice cecal, lo cual constituye la hernia de Garengeot. Caso clínico: Paciente femenina de color de piel blanca, de 56 años de edad, con antecedentes de salud, que ingresó en el Servicio de Cirugía del Hospital Universitario "Manuel Ascunce Domenech" con el diagnóstico de hernia crural atascada. Presentó dolor en la raíz del muslo derecho, náuseas y presencia de una tumoración por debajo de la línea de malgaigne, irreductible. Conclusiones: La hernia de Garengeot es una entidad quirúrgica única, difícil de distinguir de una hernia crural irreductible. Por tanto, su diagnóstico es un hallazgo intraoperatorio y la herniorrafia es el proceder quirúrgico más empleado(AU)

Introduction: Garengeot's hernia is one of the most uncommon abdominal wall hernias worldwide. Objective: To present the case of a patient with a diagnosis of crural hernia, with cecal appendix, definitely being Garengeot's hernia. Clinical case: A female patient of white skin color, aged 56 years old, with a family history of disease, was admitted to the surgery service of Hospital Universitario "Manuel Ascunce Domenech" with the diagnosis of incarcerated crural hernia. He presented pain in the root of the right thigh, nausea and an irreducible tumor below the Malgaigne's line, irreducible. Conclusions: Garengeot's hernia is a unique surgical entity, difficult to distinguish from an irreducible crural hernia. Therefore, its diagnosis is an intraoperative finding and herniorrhaphy is the most commonly used surgical procedure(AU)

Utilidad de la proteína C reactiva en el posoperatorio inmediato de un paciente reumático con apendicitis aguda / Usefulness of C-reactive protein in the immediate postoperative period of rheumatic patients with acute appendicitis

Las enfermedades reumáticas son un grupo de afecciones que se caracterizan por la presencia de manifestaciones y complicaciones sistémicas derivadas del proceso inflamatorio mantenido. Los reactantes de fase aguda, como es el caso de la proteína C reactiva constituyen un marcador de actividad de la enfermedad. Sin embargo, su utilidad se magnifica en los pacientes reumáticos que tienen que ser sometidos a una intervención quirúrgica, circunstancia en la que se tornan un marcador eficiente que muestra la magnitud del proceso inflamatorio. Se presenta el caso de una paciente femenina de 53 años edad, con diagnóstico de artritis reumatoide y síndrome de Sjögren secundario, que tuvo que ser sometida a intervención quirúrgica por diagnóstico de apendicitis aguda. Se realizó seguimiento clínico y de laboratorio utilizando la proteína C reactiva como marcador de elección para monitorear la intensidad del proceso inflamatorio resultante de la intervención quirúrgica y de los efectos de esta en la actividad clínica de las enfermedades reumáticas de base. Después del tratamiento quirúrgico y medicamentoso, la paciente fue dada de alta hospitalaria sin manifestaciones articulares, digestivas ni alteraciones de los exámenes de laboratorio(AU)

Rheumatic diseases are a group of conditions characterized by the presence of systemic manifestations and complications derived from the sustained inflammatory process. Acute phase reactants, such as C-reactive protein, constitute a marker of disease activity. However, its usefulness is magnified in those rheumatic patients who have to undergo surgery, being an efficient marker that shows the magnitude of the inflammatory process. We present the case of a 53-year-old female patient diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and secondary Sjögren's syndrome who had to undergo surgery due to a diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Clinical and laboratory follow-up was performed using C-reactive protein as the marker of choice to monitor the intensity of the inflammatory process resulting from the surgical intervention and its effects on the clinical activity of underlying rheumatic diseases(AU)

Hernia of De Garengeot an up to date of diagnosis, initial management and treatment: a narrative review and a case study report / Hernia de De Garengeot: diagnóstico, manejo inicial y tratamiento actualizados: una revisión narrativa y un informe de estudio de caso

INTRODUCTION A De Garengeot hernia is defined by a femoral hernia containing the appendix. Acute appendicitis within a femoral hernia is an extremely rare surgical presentation and occurs in only 0.08-0.013% of cases cited in the literature and 5 to 15% of all femoral hernias. CASE PRESENTATION A 53-year-old woman presented to the emergency room of our hospital in our ward with acute onset of a right-sided inguinal swelling that occurred earlier that day after performing a heavy lift. Her examination revealed acute appendicitis contained within an incarcerated right femoral hernia. The patient underwent laparoscopic appendectomy with open femoral hernia repair. Intraoperatively, the tip of the appendix was incarcerated within the hernial sac. She was removed through the open inguinal incision after the base of the appendix has been divided laparoscopically. The final pathology showed acute inflamed appendicitis with no evidence of neoplasm. DISCUSSION Physicians should be aware of the rare extent of an unusual presentation of appendicitis such as well as surgical options for treatment. The literature does not conclude on a gold standard for the method of approach. CONCLUSION De Garengeot's hernia remains a rare and unusual surgical presentation of femoral hernia, and the complication of the case by incarceration leading to acute appendicitis provides a challenging surgical approach that should be personalized for each patient

Diverticulitis apendicular, como diagnóstico diferencial / Appendiceal diverticulitis as differential diagnosis

RESUMEN La diverticulitis apendicular (DA) es una patología poco frecuente, considerada clínicamente indistinguible de la apendicitis aguda, aunque podría presentar una sintomatología más leve. Este es el caso de un paciente masculino de 59 años, que concurre al Servicio de Urgencias presentando signos y síntomas sugestivos de una apendicitis aguda; una ecografía informa un asa tubular parcialmente compresible de 7,8 mm de diámetro y una fina banda de líquido laminar, compatible con proceso apendicular agudo. La apendicectomía se realizó de manera convencional evidenciándose un apéndice inflamado principalmente en su región distal. La histología reveló diverticulitis apendicular complicada con rotura. El paciente evolucionó favorablemente y se externó a las 24 horas. Existe una asociación de DA y neoplasia apendicular, por lo que se recomienda una colonoscopia y el seguimiento de este tipo de pacientes.

ABSTRACT Appendiceal diverticulitis (AD) is a rare condition considered clinically identical to acute appendicitis although it may present milder symptoms. We report the case of a 59-year-old male patient who visited the emergency department due to signs and symptoms suggestive of acute appendicitis. An abdominal ultrasound showed partially compressible tubular loop with a diameter of 7.8 mm and a thin band of laminar fluid, consistent with acute appendiceal process. During conventional appendectomy the appendix had signs of inflammation, mainly in the distal region. The histology revealed appendiceal diverticulitis complicated with rupture. The patient had favorable outcome and was discharged 24 hours later. As, there is a clear association between AD and appendiceal neoplasms, colonoscopy and patient monitoring is recommended.

Laparoscopic appendicectomy without the use of disposable materials - a low-cost alternative - 1, 552 cases operated in 20 years / Apendicectomia laparoscópica sem uso de materiais descartáveis - uma alternativa de baixo custo - 1. 552 casos operados em 20 anos

ABSTRACT Introduction: Laparoscopic appendectomy does not have a single protocol on its technical systematization, access routes, and use of energy and staplers. The cost of disposable materials can prevent its widespread use. Alternatives to decrease cost can help disseminate the laparoscopic access to appendectomy. Objective: to introduce a low-cost laparoscopic appendectomy method with good aesthetic results through the location of incisions; to show its viability through its application in 1,552 cases of laparoscopic appendectomy operated between 2000 and 2019 with three portals and very low-cost regarding materials used. Methods: we applied three punctures - an umbilical one for the camera (5 or 10mm in diameter), a 10mm puncture in the right iliac fossa, and one 5mm puncture in the left iliac fossa. The materials used were permanent use trocars, grasping forceps, hook, scissors, and needle holder, without the need for any disposable device. Results: 1.552 patients were operated between 2000 and 2019, 56.2% being female, mean age 32.66 years (9-93), average hospital stay of 1.74 days (1-10), and median of 1.2 days. Conclusion: the technique we describe uses three metallic trocars and four permanent instruments, in addition to a single cotton suture. It is, therefore, a very low-cost laparoscopic procedure. Its application has shown good results and low morbidity, which may become the preferred indication for laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of acute appendicitis.

RESUMO Introdução: a apendicectomia videolaparoscópica não tem protocolo único sobre sistematização técnica, vias de acesso, uso de energia e grampeadores. O custo de materiais descartáveis pode inviabilizar o emprego mais generalizado. Alternativas para diminuir o custo podem ajudar a disseminar o acesso laparoscópico para a realização de apendicectomia. Objetivo: introduzir um método para realizar a apendicectomia videolaparoscópica de baixo custo e visando bom resultado estético por meio da localização das incisões; mostrar a viabilidade por meio de aplicação em 1.552 casos de apendicectomia videolaparoscópica operados entre 2000 e 2019 com três portais, de muito baixo custo em insumos utilizados. Métodos: três punções - uma punção umbilical para introdução da câmera (de 5 ou 10mm de diâmetro), uma punção de 10mm em fossa ilíaca direita e uma punção em fossa ilíaca esquerda de 5mm. Os materiais utilizados - trocartes, pinças de apreensão, gancho, tesoura e porta-agulhas são de uso permanente, sem necessidade de qualquer material descartável. Resultados: foram operados 1.552 pacientes entre 2000 e 2019, sendo 56,25% do sexo feminino, média de idade de 32,66 anos (9 a 93 anos), tempo médio de internação de 1,74 dias (1 a 10 dias) e mediana de 1,2 dias. Conclusão: a técnica que descrevemos utiliza três trocartes metálicos e quatro instrumentos permanentes, além de um único fio de algodão. Trata-se, portanto, de procedimento laparoscópico de muito baixo custo. A aplicação demonstrou bons resultados e baixa morbidade, podendo tornar-se rotina a indicação preferencial da vídeocirurgia no tratamento da apendicite aguda.

Application of ultrasound-guided endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy in children with appendix-related chronic abdominal pain / 中国当代儿科杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To study the clinical efficacy of ultrasound-guided endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy in children with appendix-related chronic abdominal pain.@*METHODS@#A retrospective analysis was performed on the medical data of 30 children with the chief complaint of chronic abdominal pain who were admitted from August 2019 to May 2021. All the children were found to have inflammation of the appendix or intracavitary stool and fecalith by ultrasound and underwent ultrasound-guided endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy. The medical data for analysis included clinical manifestations, endoscopic findings, white blood cell count, neutrophil percentage, length of hospital stay, and cure rate.@*RESULTS@#Among the 30 children with chronic abdominal pain, there were 13 boys (43%) and 17 girls (57%), with a mean age of (9±3) years (range 3-15 years) at diagnosis. The median duration of the disease was 12 months, and the median length of hospital stay was 3 days. The children had a median white blood cell count of 6.7×109/L and a neutrophil percentage of 50%±13%. Fecalith and a large amount of feces were flushed out of the appendix cavity for 21 children (70%) during surgery. The follow-up rate was 97% (29/30), and the median follow-up time was 11 months (range 5-26 months). Of the 29 children, abdominal pain completely disappeared in 27 children (93%).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Ultrasound-guided endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy is effective in children with chronic abdominal pain caused by feces or fecalith in the appendix cavity.

Ultrasonographic findings of child acute appendicitis incorporated into a scoring system

INTRODUCTION@#This study aimed to investigate the ultrasonographic features of paediatric acute appendicitis and incorporate them into a scoring algorithm that will quantify the risk of complications and the strength of recommendation for surgical intervention.@*METHODS@#179 patients with suspected appendicitis who had undergone ultrasonographic examination were included in this study. Based on their medical evaluation and post-surgical histopathological results, patients were categorised into confirmed appendicitis (n = 101) and non-appendicitis (n = 78) groups.@*RESULTS@#In the appendicitis group, the appendix was visualised in 66 (65.3%) patients. In cases where the appendix was not visualised, we looked out for secondary inflammatory signs, which were present in 32 (31.7%) patients. Using stepwise logistic regression, Blumberg's sign, free fluid or collection, hyperaemia, non-compressible appendix and an appendix diameter > 7 mm were found to be significant predictive factors for appendicitis. A new scoring system called POPs was developed, combining inflammatory predictors and ultrasonography findings, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.958 (95% confidence interval 0.929-0.986).@*CONCLUSION@#The newly developed POPs-based diagnosis scheme proved a promising alternative to existing scoring systems such as the Alvarado score. Although further calibration would be beneficial, the proposed scoring scheme is simple and easy to understand, memorise and apply in the emergency room.

Factors associated with postoperative complications following appendectomy in elderly patients

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Appendicitis in elderly patients is more challenging due to delayed presentation and higher comorbidities, which are associated with increased postoperative morbidity. The aim of this study was to evaluate factors that predict 30-day complications in elderly patients undergoing appendectomy. METHODS: The records of elderly patients who underwent appendectomy were reviewed. The primary outcome was 30-day postoperative complications. Independent variables examined included demographic data, comorbidities, preoperative laboratory values, pathological findings, and surgical features. Both univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with postoperative complications. RESULTS: Evaluation was performed on 80 patients, comprising 63.8% females with a mean age of 71.3 years. Notably, 19 (23.8%) patients had one or more complications within 30 days after surgery. No significant difference was found between patients with and without complications in respect of age, gender, or laboratory features. The rates of American Society of Anesthesiologists scores 3-4 (p=0.006), hypertension (p=0.016), cardiovascular disease (p=0.049), and obesity (p=0.040) were significantly higher for patients with complications than for those without. On multivariate analysis, obesity (OR 9.41), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR 9.72), and open appendectomy (OR 14.87) were independently associated with 30-day postoperative complications. CONCLUSIONS: Older patients undergoing appendectomy tend to have poorer outcomes than younger patients. Therefore, it is critical to identify factors that could reduce the possibility of adverse outcomes in this frail population. The results of this study suggest that obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and an open approach are independent factors for complications in elderly patients undergoing appendectomy.

Hallazgos imagenológicos de la apendicitis de muñón / Imagenological findings of stump apendicitis

Resumen La apendicitis del muñón es una complicación poco frecuente de la apendicectomía. Puede aparecer desde unas semanas a varios años luego del procedimiento quirúrgico. Para arribar a su diagnóstico es necesario un alto índice de sospecha. El objetivo de esta publicación es hacer una reseña de dos casos de esta entidad ocurridos en nuestra institución y mencionar sus hallazgos imagenológicos más frecuentes. La tomografía computarizada es un excelente método para valorar esta entidad, no solo para su diagnóstico sino también para descartar otras patologías que presentan un cuadro clínico similar.

Abstract Stump appendicitis is a rare complication of appendectomy. It may develop from a few weeks to several years after the surgical procedure. To achieve its diagnosis a high index of suspicion is necessary. The objective of this publication is to make a re view of two cases of this entity that occurred in our institution and to mention its most frequent imaging findings. Computed tomography is an excellent method to assess this entity, not only for its diagnosis but also to rule out other pathologies that present similar clinical features.

Impacto de la pandemia por COVID-19 en la población pediátrica con apendicitis aguda: experiencia en un hospital general de tercer nivel / Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the pediatric population with acute appendicitis: Experience at a general, tertiary care hospital

Introducción. La apendicitis constituye la principal causa de abdomen agudo quirúrgico en pediatría. Durante la pandemia por COVID-19, se replantearon las estrategias de manejo ydisminuyeron las consultas en las guardias, lo que podría asociarse a diagnósticos tardíos y complicaciones. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar el impacto de la pandemia en los niños con apendicitis aguda. Métodos. Estudio analítico retrospectivocomparativo de pacientes pediátricos conapendicitis aguda durante los cinco meses del confinamiento por COVID-19 versus los meses equivalentes del año previo. Se analizaron la incidencia, la clínica, el estadio, el abordajequirúrgico y las complicaciones. Resultados. Los casos totales de apendicitisse redujeron un 25 % (n = 67 versus n = 50 en 2020). El tiempo medio hasta la consulta fue de 24 horas en ambos períodos (p = 0,989). La incidencia de peritonitis fue del 44 % (n = 22) versus el 37 % (n = 22) (p = 0,22) en 2019. No se evidenció diferencia en los estadios deenfermedad de acuerdo con lo informado en los partes quirúrgicos. En 2019, todas las cirugías se realizaron por vía laparoscópica; en 2020, solo un42 % (n = 21). La incidencia de complicaciones fue del 6 %, contra 7,5 % en el período previo (p = 0,75). Un paciente fue COVID-19 positivo. Conclusión. A pesar de la reducción en el númerode casos de apendicitis, no se evidenció una demora en la consulta en nuestra población. El mayor impacto se asoció a la readecuación del manejo, evitando el abordaje laparoscópico para reducir la diseminación del virus.

Introduction. Appendicitis is the leading cause of surgical acute abdomen in pediatrics. During the COVID-19 pandemic, management strategies were reassessed and the number of visits to the emergency department dropped down, which may be associated with delayed diagnoses and complications. The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of the pandemic on children with acute appendicitis. Methods. Analytical, retrospective, comparative study of pediatric patients with acute appendicitis in the 5 months of COVID-19 lockdown versus the same period in the previous year. Incidence, clinical data, stage, surgical approach, and complications were analyzed. Results. The total number of appendicitis cases went down by 25 % (n = 67 versus n = 50 in 2020). The mean time to consultation was 24 hours in both periods (p = 0.989). The incidence of peritonitis was 44 % (n = 22) versus 37 % (n = 22) (p = 0.22) in 2019. No differences were  observed in terms of appendicitis stage based on surgery reports. In 2019, all surgeries were laparoscopic; while in 2020, only 42 % (n = 21). The incidence of complications was 6 % versus 7.5 % in the previous period (p = 0.75). One patient was COVID-19 positive. Conclusion. Although in our population the number of appendicitis cases dropped down, consultation was not delayed. The greater impact was associated with the reformulation of management strategies, in which the laparoscopic approach is avoided to reduce virus transmission.

Management of acute appendicitis during the COVID-19 pandemic: Views of two Brazilian surgical societies / Análise descritiva do tratamento dos doentes com apendicite aguda durante a pandemia de COVID-19: A visão dos cirurgiões de duas sociedades nacionais

ABSTRACT Acute appendicitis (AA) is a frequent cause of abdominal pain requiring surgical treatment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, surgical societies considered other therapeutic options due to uncertainties in the evolution of the disease. The purpose of this study is to assess the treatment of AA by members of two Brazilian surgical societies in this period. A common questionnaire was sent in 2020. There were 382 responses. Most surgeons had more than 15 years of profession (68.3%) and treated more than five cases per month (44.8%). About 72.5% would indicate chest CT to investigate COVID-19 in patients with AA. For those patients sustaining uncomplicated AA, without COVID-19, 60.2% would indicate laparoscopic appendectomy (VLA), followed by open appendectomy (OA) (31.7%) and non-operative management (NOM) (1.3%). For those with mild COVID-19, OA was suggested by 51.0%, followed by VLA (29.6%) and NOM (6.0%). For those with severe COVID-19, OA was proposed by 35.3%, followed by NOM (19.9%) and VLA (18.6%). For patients with periappendiceal abscesses, without COVID-19, VLA was suggested by 54.2%, followed by OA (33.2%) and NOM (4.4%). For those with mild COVID-19, OA was proposed in 49.5%, followed by VLA (29.3%) and NOM (8.9%). In those with severe COVID-19, OA was proposed in 36.6%, followed by NOM (25.1%) and VLA (17.3%). This information, based on two recognized Brazilian surgical societies, can help the surgeon to select the best approach individually.

RESUMO A apendicite aguda (AA) é causa frequente de abdome agudo cirúrgico. Durante a pandemia de COVID-19, devido às incertezas na evolução da doença, sociedades consideraram outras opções terapêuticas. Nosso objetivo é descrever o tratamento da AA por membros do CBC e SBAIT neste período. O questionário foi enviado em 2020. Houve 382 respostas. A maioria dos profissionais tinha mais de 15 anos de profissão (68,3%) e atendia mais de cinco casos por mês (44,8%). Cerca de 72,5% realizariam TC de tórax para investigação de COVID-19 em pacientes com AA. Nos com AA não complicada, sem COVID-19, 60,2% optariam pela apendicectomia videolaparoscópica (AVL), seguido de apendicectomia aberta (AAB) (31,7%) e tratamento não operatório (TNO) (1,3%). Nos com COVID-19 leve, AAB foi proposta por 51,0%, seguido da AVL (29,6%) e TNO (6,0%). Nos com COVID-19 grave, a AAB foi proposta por 35,3%, seguido de TNO (19,9%) e AVL (18,6%). Nos com AA complicadas com abscesso, sem COVID-19, AVL foi sugerida por 54,2%, seguida da AAB (33,2%) e TNO (4,4%). Nos com COVID-19 leve, a AAB foi proposta em 49,5%, seguidos da AVL (29,3%) e TNO (8,9%). Nos com COVID-19 grave, a AAB foi proposta em 36,6%, seguido de TNO (25,1%) e AVL (17,3%). Estas são opções de cirurgiões de duas sociedades cirúrgicas reconhecidas e podem auxiliar o colega que está na linha de frente a definir a melhor conduta individualmente.

Comparison of outcomes and cost-effectiveness of laparoscopic and open appendectomies in public health services / Comparação de desfechos e custo-efetividade de apendicectomias laparoscópicas e abertas em serviços públicos de saúde

ABSTRACT Acute appendicitis is the leading cause of abdominal emergency surgery worldwide and appendectomy continues to be the definitive treatment of choice. This cost-effectiveness analysis evaluates laparoscopic versus open appendectomies performed in public health services in the state of Bahia (Brazil). We conducted a retrospective observational study using the database from the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS). Available data on appendectomies between 2008 and 2019 were included, and we evaluated the temporal trend of hospital admissions, procedure-related mortality rates, length of stay, and costs. Statistical analysis was performed using the R-software (R Foundation, v.4.0.3) and the BioEstat software (IMDS, v. 5.3), considering p<0.05 as significant. During 2008-2019, 53,024 appendectomies were performed in the public health services in Bahia, of which 94.9% were open surgeries. The open technique was associated with a higher mortality rate (4.9/1,000 procedures; p<0.05) and a higher risk of death (RR=4.5; p<0.05) compared to laparoscopy (1.1/1,000 procedures). Laparoscopic appendectomy (median of 2.7 days) had a shorter length of stay compared to laparotomy (median of 4.15 days) (p<0.05). There was no difference in the medians of costs nor hospital services, per procedure (p=0.08 and p=0.08, respectively). Laparoscopic professional median costs were higher by US$ 1.39 (p<0.05). Minimally invasive surgery for appendicitis is a safe and efficacious procedure in Brazilian public health care services, as it provides advantages over the open method (including lower procedure-related mortality rate and earlier discharges), and it did not imply higher expenses for public service budgets in the state of Bahia.

RESUMO Apendicite aguda é a principal causa de cirurgia abdominal de emergência no mundo e a apendicectomia continua sendo o tratamento definitivo de escolha. A presente investigação avalia desfechos e custos das apendicectomias laparoscópicas versus abertas realizadas em serviços públicos de saúde no estado da Bahia (Brasil). Realizou-se estudo observacional retrospectivo, utilizando a base de dados do DATASUS. Incluiu-se dados disponíveis sobre apendicectomias na Bahia entre 2008 e 2019, avaliando-se a tendência temporal de internações, taxas de mortalidade por procedimentos, tempo de permanência e custos. A análise estatística foi realizada no R-software (Fundação R, v.4.0.3) e no software BioEstat (IMDS, v.5.3), considerando p<0,05 significativo. Entre 2008 e 2019, realizou-se 53.024 apendicectomias no serviço público de saúde na Bahia, das quais 94,9% foram cirurgias abertas. A laparotomia foi associada à maior taxa de mortalidade (4,9/1.000 procedimentos; p<0,05) e maior risco de morte (RR=4,5; p<0,05) do que laparoscopia (1,1/1.000 procedimentos). Apendicectomia laparoscópica (mediana de 2,7 dias) obteve menor tempo de internamento do que cirurgia laparotômica (mediana de 4,15 dias) (p<0,05). Não houve diferença entre as medianas dos custos e nem dos serviços hospitalares por procedimento (p=0,08 e p=0,08, respectivamente). A mediana do custo de profissionais na laparoscopia foi significativamente mais elevada, em US$ 1,39 (p<0,05). A cirurgia minimamente invasiva para apendicite é um procedimento seguro e eficaz, proporcionando vantagens sobre a laparotomia (incluindo menor taxa de mortalidade e alta precoce), não implicando, por sua vez, em maiores despesas para cofres públicos no estado da Bahia.

Apendicitis aguda perforada con diagnóstico prequirúrgico y hernia inguinal bilateral en recién nacido de pretérmino / Acute perforated appendicitis with pre-surgical diagnosis and bilateral inguinal hernia in preterm infants

INTRODUCCIÓN: La apendicitis aguda neonatal es una patología de muy baja frecuencia, con escasos reportes en los últimos 30 años. La clínica e imágenes son inespecíficas, diagnosticándose la mayoría de las veces durante el procedimiento quirúrgico. OBJETIVO: Presentar un caso de apendicitis aguda perfora da en paciente prematura, con diagnóstico prequirúrgico y resolución laparoscópica, asociada a aparición posterior de hernia inguinal. CASO CLÍNICO: Recién nacido femenino de 34 semanas que a los 17 días de vida presentó fiebre, irritabilidad y aumento del residuo lácteo. Al examen físico destacaba distensión y sensibilidad del abdomen y tanto la radiografía como ecografía abdominales eran compatibles con apendicitis aguda perforada, por lo cual ingresó a pabellón para laparoscopía. Confirmado el diagnóstico, se realizó apendicectomía. Dos semanas después en consulta ambulatoria, se evidenció y confirmó con ecografía una hernia inguinal bilateral que se corrigió quirúrgicamente. CONCLUSIÓN: La apendicitis aguda debe considerarse dentro de los diagnósticos diferenciales en neonatos con clínica de abdomen agudo, principalmente en prematuros. En este caso, la ecografía permitió realizar el diagnóstico pre-operatorio. La posible asociación con hernia inguinal, debiera motivar a examinar siempre conductos inguinales durante la evaluación con imá genes y en el procedimiento quirúrgico.

INTRODUCTION: Acute neonatal appendicitis is a rare pathology, with few reports in the last 30 years. Since its clinical presentation and imaging studies are non-specific, most cases are diagnosed during a surgical pro cedure. OBJECTIVE: To describe a neonatal case of acute perforated appendicitis associated with later appearance of inguinal hernia, with pre-surgical diagnosis and treated through laparoscopy. CLINICAL CASE: A 17-day-old preterm female newborn presented with fever, irritability, and increased milk intolerance. Physical examination showed abdominal distention, tenderness and both, abdominal X- ray and ultrasound showed compatible images with acute perforated appendicitis. Once the diagnosis was confirmed, we performed an appendicectomy through laparoscopy. Two weeks later, during an outpatient visit, we observed a bilateral inguinal hernia which was confirmed by ultrasound, and then it was surgically corrected. CONCLUSION: Acute appendicitis should be considered within the differential diagnosis in neonates with acute abdominal symptoms, mainly in premature infants. In this case, ultrasound scan allowed us to make the pre-operative diagnosis. The possible association with inguinal hernias should motivate to examine inguinal ducts during imaging assessment and surgical procedure.

Tratamiento quirúrgico de la apendicitis aguda durante la pandemia: el daño colateral del COVID-19 / Surgical treatment of acute appendicitis in pandemic: COVID -19 collateral damage

RESUMEN Antecedentes: la pandemia por COVID-19 generó cambios en el manejo de pacientes con todo tipo de patologías. Mostramos la experiencia respecto de los pacientes con apendicitis aguda (AA) operados en un hospital universitario de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires durante los meses de confina miento y su comparación con el mismo período del año 2019 a fin de evaluar las diferencias. Material y métodos: se analizó en forma retrospectiva una base confeccionada de forma prospectiva. Se compararon pacientes operados de AA, consignando los datos respecto del período preoperatorio, comparando datos inherentes a la cirugía y sus resultados en los períodos marzo-julio de 2019 y 2020. Resultados: fueron incluidos 127 pacientes, 46 de ellos operados durante la pandemia. Los pacientes operados durante la pandemia presentaron mayor incidencia de peritonitis (61,7% vs. 76,1%; p: 0,09) y mayor requerimiento de drenaje abdominal (9,9% vs. 23,9%; p: 0,03). También tuvieron mayor in cidencia de complicaciones (10,9 vs. 4,9%; p: 0,21), reoperaciones (8,7 vs. 1,23%, p: 0,03), reinterna ciones (6,5 vs. 0%, p: 0,02) y requerimiento de antibioticoterapia endovenosa prolongada (6,5 vs. 0%; p: 0,02). La estadía hospitalaria fue mayor para la cohorte operada durante la pandemia: 3,24 días (Desvío estándar [D.E.]: 7,31) vs. 1,89 días (D.E: 2,04). Conclusiones: durante la pandemia por COVID-19, el número de pacientes operados por AA disminuyó con respecto al año 2019; se observaron estadios más avanzados de la enfermedad, mayores compli caciones en el posoperatorio y mayor estadía hospitalaria.

ABSTRACT Background: COVID-19 pandemic has generated changes regarding the management of patients with all kind of pathologies. Here we show the experience concerning the surgical treatment of acute appendicitis (AA) in a teaching hospital in the city of Buenos Aires during the lockdown, and its comparison with the same period of 2019 in order to assess the differences between the timing for consultation, intraoperative findings and the treatment outcome. Material and methods: A prospective database was retrospectively analyzed. We compared patients undergoing surgical treatment for AA in March-July of 2019 v. March-July 2020, taking into account the preoperative period and comparing the outcome regarding the surgical intervention and the impact in the postoperative period between the two groups. Results: 127 patients were included, 46 treated during the pandemic. Patients undergoing surgical treatment during the pandemic had a higher incidence of peritonitis (61.7% vs. 76.1%; p = 0.09) and higher requirement of abdominal drainage (9.9% vs. 23.9%; p = 0.03). There was an increase in the incidence of complications (10.9 vs. 4.9%; p: 0.21), reoperations (8.7 vs. 1.23%, p: 0.03), readmissions (6.5 vs. 0%, p: 0.02) and need for out-patient intravenous antibiotics (6.5 vs. 0%; p: 0.02). The average hospital length was of 1.89 (SD 2.04) and 3.24 (SD 7.31) for the groups operated before and during pandemic, respectively. Conclusions: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of patients undergoing surgical intervention because of AA decreased compared to the previous year, with increased complications in the postoperative period, higher compromise of the appendix, and longer hospital stay.