Background The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on medical services is overwhelming due to limited medical resources. During its initial surge in 2020, Taiwan's government rapidly established diverse public actions, which helped maintain the medical supply without travel restrictions. However, whether the fear of being infected with COVID-19 interfered with health-seeking behavior (HSB) remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate whether acute complicated appendicitis (ACA) rates in adults were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A retrospective analysis of acute appendicitis in adults was performed between January 1 and June 30, 2020 (COVID-19 period). The control period was collected from the first two quarters for the preceding 3 years. Outcome measures were ACA and length of hospital stays.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
465
The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on medical services is overwhelming due to limited medical resources. During its initial surge in 2020, Taiwan's government rapidly established diverse public actions, which helped maintain the medical supply without travel restrictions. However, whether the fear of being infected with COVID-19 interfered with health-seeking behavior (HSB) remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate whether acute complicated appendicitis (ACA) rates in adults were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Incidence of complicated appendicitis
The primary outcome measure was the occurrence of ACA defined as abscess observed in computed tomography, presence of appendiceal perforation determined by surgical documentation, or a description of gangrenous appendicitis assessed by pathological reports.
Time frame: baseline, pre-surgery
Length of hospital stays
the duration of hospital stays after surgery
Time frame: up to 4 weeks
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.