Conservative Treatment of Uncomplicated Acute Appendicitis: A Possibility

Purpose: To determine effectiveness of conservative treatment of uncomplicated acute appendicitis as an option compared to surgery. Methods: 214 patients, presenting to emergency department of Services Hospital Lahore, between April 2008 and March 2009 with uncomplicated acute appendicitis, were included. 42 patients, refusing surgery and willing to enter trial were included in antibiotics group (Group A). 172 patients, willing for surgery, were operated (Group B). Both groups were compared regarding, mean age, hospital stay, treatment efficacy, recurrence and morbidity. Results: In group A, 34 out of 42 patients responded to antibiotics therapy and discharged after 48 hours. 6 patients didn't respond to antibiotics and were operated. Out of 34 patients, who responded to antibiotics, 8 had recurrence of complaint within one year and were operated. Mean age was 27 years, mean hospital stay was 3 days, complications rate was 7.14%, and treatment efficacy was 67%. In group B, 172 patients were operated. Mean age was 29 years, diagnostic accuracy was 92%, mean hospital stay was 3 days, complications rate was 14% in one year, and treatment efficacy was 72%. There was no mortality in either group. Conclusion: Conservative treatment of uncomplicated acute appendicitis is a safe option in patients refusing for surgery.