Intended for healthcare professionals

Research Article

Active observation in management of acute abdominal pain in childhood.

Br Med J 1976; 2 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.2.6035.551 (Published 04 September 1976) Cite this as: Br Med J 1976;2:551
  1. P F Jones

    Abstract

    Out of 363 children admitted to a surgical unit with acute abdominal pain only 126 (35%) had an operation. Of these, 20 first underwent a period of "active observation." This procedure, used to help reach a diagnosis or decision in doubtful cases, is safe and useful and may be applied at home or in hospital.