The Costs and Benefits of Emergent Surgical Workflow for Acute Appendicitis in Children

Appendicitis affects between 5-10% of the population, most commonly between the ages of 10-20 years old [1]. It is the most common and, as a result, collectively the most expensive surgically managed pediatric disease [2]. Perforated appendicitis, which is presumed to be a consequence of later recognition of illness [3], results in more post-operative complications, longer hospital stays and higher costs [4–7]. Accordingly, immediate appendectomy has traditionally been the standard of care for acute appendicitis in children.