Not all cholecystitis is created equal: Disparities contributing to ED presentation and failure of the outpatient algorithm.

BACKGROUND

The majority of final surgical pathology (FSP) from both emergency department (ED) and outpatient clinic (OC) patients is chronic cholecystitis. We aimed to differentiate these presentations and identify disparities associated with ED utilization and OC failure.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of single institution ED and OC cholecystectomies for cholelithiasis. Clinical presentation, FSP, demographics, and zip code poverty (ZCP) levels were evaluated. Data analysis by summary statistics, bivariate comparisons, and logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 299 OC and 308 ED patients, OC was more likely to be Caucasian (78% vs 46%, p < 0.0001) and insured (89% vs. 32%, p < 0.0001). 71.8% of OC with ZCP <10% had insurance versus only 32.5% in ZCP >20%. Uninsured ED OR was 13.1 (95% CI 8.7-22.9).

CONCLUSION

Uninsured ED patients are vulnerable to fail the outpatient algorithm, especially when misdiagnosed by US. Clinical diagnosis of cholecystitis in this population should warrant offering of urgent cholecystectomy.