Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition

The Korean Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (대한소아소화기영양학회)
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Quarantine and Appendicitis: A Macro-Area Experience

  • Nicola, Zampieri (Department of Surgery, Woman and Child Hospital, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynecology, Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Verona) ;
  • Virginia, Murri (Department of Maternal-Infant, Unit of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Fracastoro Hospital) ;
  • Mauro, Cinquetti (Department of Maternal-Infant, Unit of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Fracastoro Hospital) ;
  • Amedeo, Elio (Department of Surgery, Fracastoro Hospital) ;
  • Saverio, Camoglio Francesco (Department of Surgery, Woman and Child Hospital, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynecology, Division of Pediatric Surgery, University of Verona)
  • Received : 2020.09.10
  • Accepted : 2020.12.26
  • Published : 2021.01.15
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Abstract

Purpose: Appendicitis is the most frequent urgency in pediatric age; the aim of this study was to investigate the association of quarantine for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic and the incidence of pediatric appendicitis in a specific macro area. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of consecutive patients who underwent surgical exploration for acute appendicitis in the period March-April since 2014. This specific quarantine period was divided into two phases as indicated by National government. Patient data, demographics, characteristics and outcomes were studied and evaluated comparing patients treated during quarantine especially phase 1 vs. phase 2 (March-April 2020). Results: After reviewing medical charts following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 155 patients were studied; focusing on the final outcome, it is possible to show a decreased amount of appendicitis during phase 1 and a progressive increase during phase 2; respect to previous years, there was a statistical increase in severity of appendicitis during quarantine (gangrenous vs. phlegmonous appendicitis). Conclusion: During this specific quarantine there was a reduction in appendicitis and a progressive increase during phase 2. These results offer new perspective among disease incidences during lockdown.

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References

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