Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 18, 2026
05:06
Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Splenectomy In Children: A Case Report with Literature Review
Published on: March 27, 2026
Appendicitis in children treated by pediatric versus general surgeons
Sherif G S Emil1, Michael B Taylor
1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, Miller Children's Hospital, Long Beach, CA, USA. semil@uci.edu
Journal of the American College of Surgeons
|December 26, 2006
Summary
Pediatric surgeons treat younger children with more severe appendicitis, but clinical outcomes for appendicitis are similar regardless of surgeon specialty. Pediatric surgeons had lower hospital charges for simple appendicitis cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Surgical Outcomes
- Healthcare Economics
Background:
- Appendicitis is a common surgical emergency in children.
- Both pediatric surgeons and general surgeons manage pediatric appendicitis cases.
- Investigating specialty-specific differences in patient characteristics and outcomes is crucial for optimizing care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare patient characteristics and clinical outcomes between pediatric surgeons and general surgeons treating appendicitis.
- To analyze differences in misdiagnosis, readmission, complications, hospital stay, and charges.
- To determine if surgical specialty impacts appendicitis treatment effectiveness and cost.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 465 children with appendicitis.
- Comparison of patients treated by pediatric surgeons versus general surgeons.
- Analysis of primary outcomes (misdiagnosis, readmission, complications, hospital stay) and secondary outcomes (hospital charges).
Main Results:
- Pediatric surgeon patients were younger and more likely to have gangrenous or perforated appendicitis.
- No significant differences were found in normal appendix rates, readmissions, postoperative complications, or hospital stay between the two groups.
- Hospital charges were lower for simple appendicitis treated by pediatric surgeons.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric surgeons manage younger patients with more severe appendicitis.
- Clinical outcomes for simple and complicated appendicitis are comparable between pediatric and general surgeons.
- Pediatric surgeon management of simple appendicitis is associated with lower hospital charges.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing and managing appendicitis requires a structured and comprehensive approach that spans from initial assessment to postoperative care. Here is an overview of the process:
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
01:22Appendicitis-I: Introduction
The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...