727 Ambulatory Management of Acute Uncomplicated Diverticulitis During COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

IntroductionAcute diverticulitis remains a common acute presentation to the emergency department(ED). During the COVID-19 pandemic, surgical services have been adapted to reduce hospital admissions. Our aim is to assess the safety and efficacy of the surgical ambulatory service in the management of acute diverticulitis.MethodData was retrospectively collected on consecutive patients referred to the surgical team with a suspected diagnosis of diverticulitis between 30.04.20-16.08.20. Unsuccessful ambulation was determined by representation at 30 days.Results83 patients presented with suspected diverticulitis. 36 patients were deemed clinically stable and suitable for ambulation. 21 of these patients underwent a CT abdomen in the ED, confirming uncomplicated diverticulitis and were discharged with oral antibiotics as per trust guidance. 4 patients were discharged from ED for an ambulatory CT abdomen, with a median waiting time of 3 days. 11 patients received no imaging prior to discharge, all of whom had known diverticular disease. 86% of ambulated patients underwent a telephone review within 72 hours of acute presentation. 8.3% of ambulated patients represented within a 30 day window, 0 of which required surgical management.ConclusionsPatients presenting with uncomplicated acute diverticulitis can be safely managed in an ambulatory setting. Access to imaging early can facilitate successful discharge.