Response-based therapy for ruptured appendicitis reduces resource utilization
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 19, 2026

Transradial Access Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients
Published on: September 20, 2020
David E Skarda1, Kathy Schall1, Michael Rollins1
1Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Utah, Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT.
Purpose:
We examined the effectiveness of a postoperative ruptured appendicitis protocol that eliminated Pseudomonas coverage and based the duration of IV antibiotic treatment and length of hospital stay on the patient's clinical response.
Methods:
In our new protocol, IV antibiotics were administered until the patient met discharge criteria: adequate oral intake, pain control with oral medications, and afebrile for 24h. We collected data on all patients with ruptured appendicitis at our institution following protocol implementation (May 1, 2012, to April 30, 2013) and compared them to a control group.
Results:
306 patients were treated (154 prior protocol, 152 new protocol). The new clinical response-based protocol led to a decrease in hospital stay from 134h (SD 66.1) to 94.5h (SD 61.7) (p<0.001) and total cost of care per patient also decreased from $13,610 (SD $6859) to $9870 (SD $5670) (p<0.001).
Conclusion:
Our clinical response-based protocol for pediatric patients with ruptured appendicitis decreased LOS, cost, and IV antibiotics use without significant changes in adverse events.
Related Concept Videos
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
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...
Appendicitis-I: Introduction
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...
Appendicitis
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
Flail Chest-II
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:

