1050 An Audit of the Management of Acute Epididymo-orchitis. (12th October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sturgess, G; Davies, A
• Is Part Of: British journal of surgery. Volume 108:Supplement 6(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10-12
• Subjects: Surgery -- Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znab259.118
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1323

Abstract

Abstract: Aim: To evaluate the management of patients referred to our Surgical Assessment Unit presenting with acute epididymo-orchitis. Concordance with local antibiotic guidance, the use of ultrasound scanning, and microbiological testing were all assessed over a one-year period. Method: All adult patients presenting with acute epididymo-orchitis in 2019 were identified retrospectively using ICD-10 codes and the choice of antibiotic used was compared to our own local guidance. The use of ultrasound scanning was recorded and whether this led to a change in diagnosis or management. Use of microbiological investigations including urine microscopy & culture and sexual health screening were assessed. Results: After exclusion criteria were applied 64 cases were identified with an average age of 55 (16-88). Concordance with local antibiotic guidance was low with 3/64 patients receiving antibiotics in-line with local guidance. This was predominantly due to the frequent use of Ciprofloxacin (49/64) which is not advised locally, however is in-keeping with guidance from organisations such as EAU/BASHH. Ultrasound was used acutely in 46/64 patients with 28/46 showing evidence of epididymo-orchitis, 15/46 were normal and 1/46 confirmed an abscess which required surgical drainage. All normal scans were still treated with antibiotics based on clinical findings. 25/64 had a urine sample sent for MC&S and uptake of sexual health screening was low. Conclusions: Urologists should be aware of differences between local prescribing policy and broader guidance from relevant organisations. Epididymo-orchitis remains a clinical diagnosis and ultrasound should be reserved acutely for diagnostic uncertainty, unwell patients, or failure to improve.