Outpatient management of pediatric epistaxis: A cost analysis and clinical model

Abstract

Objective(s): Pediatric epistaxis is a common, often non-operative condition encountered by Otolaryngologists. The present study seeks to (1) describe our outcomes of epistaxis management, (2) estimate the associated healthcare burden, and (3) propose a clinical model to optimize care coordination with primary care and advanced practice providers. Methods: Retrospective case series of pediatric patients treated outpatient for epistaxis by a single otolaryngologist from 2021 to 2022. The primary outcome after treatment with nasal lubricants was defined as (1) refractory epistaxis, (2) improvement, or (3) complete resolution. Cost data for office versus operative nasal cautery were analyzed. Results: In total, 122 patients were included for analysis. Over a follow-up duration of 20.5 months (IQR 8–36), 24.6% of patients experienced refractory epistaxis, 41.8% of patients found improvement, and 33.6% had complete resolution (n = 122). Refractory epistaxis was associated with a family history of coagulopathy (p =.007), daily epistaxis episodes (p =.043), and anemia (p