Keywords
COVID-19
Pandemic
Hospitalization
Mortality
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Abstract
Objective: To understand the epidemiological aspects of hospital admissions for appendix disease during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This is a quantitative, descriptive, observational-ecological, and retrospective study. Hospitalization rates for appendix diseases were assessed using DATASUS data from 2018 to 2024, including both sexes and all states in the Southeastern region of Brazil. Data were analyzed using analytical statistical methods and adjusted according to 2024 intercensal population projections. Results: A reduction in hospitalization rates was observed during the critical period of the pandemic, followed by stabilization at lower levels from 2020 onward. Temporal analysis revealed moderate annual fluctuations and differences among states, with a predominance of cases in São Paulo, particularly among males. Regarding mortality rates, a progressive increase was noted, especially in the state of Rio de Janeiro, while Espírito Santo maintained the lowest regional indices. Conclusion: During the period of elective surgery restrictions and social isolation imposed by the pandemic, a decrease in hospitalizations for acute appendicitis was observed, concomitant with an increase in mortality rates. After this interval, the values stabilized, approaching pre-pandemic levels.
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