The Severity of Appendicitis During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Single Institution Experience.

This study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the severity and outcomes of appendicitis by comparing cases from a pre-COVID-19 (PC) era (April 2018–March 2020) to those during the COVID-19 (C) era (March 2020–April 2022), including a comparison between COVID-19 positive (C+) and negative (C-) patients. Contrary to the initial hypothesis, the PC era showed a higher frequency of severe appendicitis cases (perforated and gangrenous) based on pathology reports, while the C era had significantly higher 30-day readmission rates, particularly following laparoscopic appendectomies. No significant differences in appendicitis severity or readmission rates were observed between C+ and C- patients during the pandemic. The study suggests that pandemic-related factors influenced readmission rates and surgical approaches but did not increase appendicitis severity, and it highlights the need for further research on the relationship between COVID-19 infection and appendicitis outcomes.