With more than 250,000 people undergoing appendicitis surgery every year, it undoubtedly comes under the category of the most commonly performed surgeries in the United States. According to the latest research report, seven out of every ten patients who took antibiotics eluded surgery. Still, researchers warned that receiving antibiotics regarding appendicitis might not be for everyone, and patients are only advisable to go for it after proper consultation with their physician.
The research study involved the participation of the Henry Ford Health System along with 24 other U.S. sites. Comparing Outcomes of Antibiotics Drugs and Appendectomy (CODA) is the largest research study comparing antibiotics and surgery in adults having appendicitis. It is the first to involve patients with severe appendicitis and a condition named appendicolith wherein a small stone is formed in the appendix.
Key Results of the Study
Seven out of every ten patients who took antibiotics within 90 days of treatment avoided surgery, while three out of ten eventually went for it. Four out of every ten patients having appendicolith who took antibiotics within 90 days required surgery. Patients treated with either antibiotics or surgery experienced symptoms for almost the same amount of time.
The study’s timing amid the pandemic could have significant implications for both hospitals and patients, as acknowledged by the researchers. Antibiotic treatment would emerge as a preferred choice for everyone concerned regarding the risks of exposure to COVID-19.The study also provided health institutions with clarifying options as the hospital has been preparing for a probable upsurge of COVID-19 cases in the fall and winter. Owing to the health care discrepancies highlighted during the pandemic, doctors must address the vulnerable patients mindfully, as stated by the study.
For the patients hesitating to come into a healthcare environment amid these coronavirus pandemic, antibiotics would prove to be a feasible option. According to various data, patients tested COVID-19 positive would face more complications while undergoing general anaesthetic. Hence, treatment through antibiotics would be the most viable option for successful outpatient treatment; as a result, resources could also be preserved for other kinds of surgeries.