Among other things, the study examines the optimal surgical approach for children of various ages (laparoscopic or open surgery) and the best treatment for large infiltrates and abscesses (initial non-operative treatment or immediate appendectomy). Key outcome measures of the study include complications, cost (effectiveness), and quality of life.
Progress
Recently, the inclusion phase of the study successfully concluded after 4 years in the 37 participating hospitals in the Netherlands. These 1308 children will be followed for 3 months to investigate their outcomes. Our primary outcomes are the amount of complications accompanied with each treatment strategy to determine the best approach in these children. Secondarily, this study also investigates health-related quality of life and associated costs.
Prospects
By the end of this year, the final follow-up will be completed and we can start analyzing the results. We aim to determine the best treatment for children with complex appendicitis.
