Simple Acute Appendicitis versus Non-Perforated Gangrenous Appendicitis: Is There a Difference in the Rate of Post-Operative Infectious Complications?

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

According to the 2002 Surgical Infection Society Guidelines on Antimicrobial Therapy for Intra-abdominal Infections, antimicrobial therapy is not recommended beyond 24 hours for the treatment of postoperative acute or gangrenous appendicitis without perforation. However, clinicians commonly consider gangrenous appendicitis to pose a greater risk of post-operative infectious complications, such as surgical site infections and intra-abdominal abscesses. This study examines the relative risk of post-operative infection between patients with simple and gangrenous appendicitis.

Methods:

A retrospective review of patients with either non-perforated gangrenous or simple appendicitis from 2010 to 2012 was performed at a large urban teaching hospital.

Results:

The rate of post-operative intra-abdominal abscess formation, which was diagnosed on patient readmission to the hospital, was significantly greater in patients with non-perforated gangrenous appendicitis in comparison to those with simple non-perforated appendicitis. Also, patients with non-perforated gangrenous appendicitis received extended courses of post-operative antibiotics, despite SIS recommendations.

Conclusions:

The role of peri-operative antibiotics for non-perforated gangrenous appendicitis merits further study.