Dr. Shah of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center said the findings will give clinicians pause about whether invasive procedures are needed and the relative timing of these procedures. Moreover, researchers will recognize the importance of measuring long-term outcomes in future trials.
"I think that it’s critical to look at these [outcomes] because ultimately that is what matters," he said. "I think most people would be willing to trade a day or two in the hospital if whatever you’re doing led to fewer long-term symptoms."
Dr. Mahant and his coauthors reported a University of Toronto grant and funding from the SickKids Foundation. Dr. Shah reported no relevant financial disclosures.