SP10.1.3 The presentation, management and outcomes of acute appendicitis: a comparison of patients presenting during the COVID-19 pandemic and those presenting in a pre-COVID-19 period

Abstract

Abstract Aims This study assesses the impact of COVID-19 on the presentation and management of acute appendicitis (AA). Patients presenting with AA during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic are compared to a pre-COVID-19 cohort. Methods Patients admitted to a single acute NHS hospital with AA between April and July in 2019 and 2020 were retrospectively identified. Data on presentation, treatment and outcomes was collected. Results 56 patients were identified in 2019, and 37 in 2020. A greater proportion of patients presented later (>3 days of symptoms) in 2020 (2019=15.6%, 2020=32.4%, p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the proportion of patients presenting systemically unwell (pyrexial & tachycardic) or with high inflammatory markers (CRP > 50 and white cell count > 15). In 2020, more patients were managed conservatively (2019=7.1%, 2020=35.1%, p < 0.05). Among those who were managed operatively, 75% underwent open appendicectomy in 2020, compared to 7.7% (including cases converted to open from laparoscopic) in 2019. Patients managed operatively during the COVID-19 pandemic had significantly more post-operative complications (2019=17.3%, 2020=50%, p < 0.05). Common post-operative complications in 2020 were abdominal collections (16.7%) and wound infections (12.5%). Median duration of admission was similar (2019=3 days, 2020=2 days) and there was no significant difference in 30-day readmissions (2019=8.9%, 2020=13.5%, p = 0.48). Conclusions AA patients in the COVID-19 pandemic were more likely to present later and were more likely to be managed conservatively or with open appendicectomy. There was a higher rate of post-operative complications for patients in 2020. Duration of stay and readmission rates were similar.