Our Summary

This study compared two ways of treating patients who need emergency surgery for appendicitis: the traditional method where the on-call surgeon operates, and a newer method where a special team of surgeons who only handle emergencies do the operation. The study found that the newer method, known as the Acute Surgical Care (ACS) model, led to patients getting into the operating room quicker, staying in the hospital for less time, and costing less overall. This approach also had a lower rate of complications like a ruptured appendix. These benefits remained even after taking into account how long the patients had symptoms before coming to the hospital. So, it seems that treating appendicitis emergencies using this dedicated team of surgeons can be more efficient and cost-effective than the traditional method.

FAQs

  1. What are the two methods of treating patients who need emergency surgery for appendicitis that were compared in the study?
  2. What advantages does the Acute Surgical Care (ACS) model have over the traditional method of appendicitis treatment?
  3. Did the study account for the duration of symptoms before patients arrived at the hospital in its findings?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient that having surgery for an appendectomy with a dedicated emergency surgical team, like the Acute Surgical Care (ACS) model, can lead to quicker treatment, shorter hospital stays, lower costs, and fewer complications. It is important for patients to be aware of this option and discuss it with their healthcare provider if they are in need of emergency surgery for appendicitis.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended for appendectomy typically include those with acute appendicitis, which is inflammation of the appendix. Symptoms of appendicitis can include abdominal pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. In some cases, patients may also experience localized tenderness in the lower right abdomen.

Appendectomy is often recommended for patients who have symptoms of appendicitis and are at risk of complications such as a ruptured appendix. This can include patients with severe abdominal pain, high fever, elevated white blood cell count, and signs of peritonitis.

It is important for patients with suspected appendicitis to seek medical attention promptly, as delaying treatment can increase the risk of complications. In cases of acute appendicitis, surgery is usually the recommended treatment to remove the inflamed appendix and prevent further complications.

Timeline

Before appendectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of appendicitis such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
  2. Patient seeks medical attention and is diagnosed with appendicitis through physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies.
  3. Patient is scheduled for emergency surgery to remove the inflamed appendix.

After appendectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes appendectomy surgery, either by the on-call surgeon or the special team of surgeons in the ACS model.
  2. Patient is monitored in the recovery room and then transferred to a hospital room for further observation.
  3. Patient may experience pain, soreness, and discomfort at the incision site.
  4. Patient is encouraged to walk and resume normal activities gradually.
  5. Patient is discharged from the hospital once they are able to tolerate food, walk comfortably, and have adequate pain control.
  6. Patient follows up with their surgeon for post-operative care and monitoring of any complications.

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after appendectomy involves timely diagnosis, surgical intervention, post-operative care, and recovery to ensure a successful outcome.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with undergoing an appendectomy?

  2. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?

  3. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or restrictions?

  4. What is the recovery process like after an appendectomy?

  5. What are the potential long-term effects or complications of having my appendix removed?

  6. Are there any alternative treatment options for appendicitis that I should consider?

  7. How experienced is the surgical team that will be performing my appendectomy?

  8. How quickly will I be able to have the surgery if I choose to proceed with the procedure?

  9. Will I need any additional tests or evaluations before the surgery?

  10. What is the success rate of the Acute Surgical Care (ACS) model compared to the traditional method for treating appendicitis emergencies?

Reference

Authors: Dhanaskeara CS, Caballero B, Moolupuri A, Chung C, Puckett Y, Santos A, Estrada M, Alhaj Saleh A, Ronaghan CA, Dissanaike S, Richmond RE. Journal: J Surg Res. 2023 Jan;281:282-288. doi: 10.1016/j.jss.2022.08.036. Epub 2022 Oct 8. PMID: 36219940