Should an appendicectomy be performed in the presence of a macroscopically healthy appendix, during laparoscopic exploration?

Abstract

Introduction: In contrast to the conventional laparotomy approach, the decision to perform an appendicectomy or not in the presence of a macroscopically normal appendix remains contentious during laparoscopic procedures. Our objective is to assess the rate of appendix conservation and conduct a literature review on the management of a macroscopically normal appendix intraoperatively. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive, prospective, evaluative study involving 337 patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery for non-traumatic acute abdominal emergencies. Results: Of the 337 patients operated on, 190 were females (56.4%), with a mean age of 38 years ± 15 years (range 15 to 82 years). In 7 patients (2.1%), the appendix appeared macroscopically normal intraoperatively, despite preoperative diagnosis favoring acute appendicitis. These 7 patients (6 females and 1 male) all underwent thorough clinical examination and preoperative ultrasound, although CT scans were performed in only 3 patients. Among these 7 patients, 2 had ovarian cyst torsions, 2 had ruptured hemorrhagic ovarian cysts, 1 case was diagnosed as retrocaecal internal hernia, and in 2 patients, no etiology was identified. The appendix was preserved in all 7 cases. All patients received postoperative antibiotic therapy. No postoperative complications or surgical reinterventions were recorded. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that a macroscopically normal appendix can be left in situ without postoperative complications or need for surgical reintervention.