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[Retained fecalith after laparoscopic appendicectomy]

A Rahili1, J Habre, J Delotte

  • 1Service de chirurgie générale et cancérologie digestive du professeur Bourgeon, hôpital Archet II, 151, route de Saint-Antoine-de-Ginestière, BP3079, cedex 3, Nice, France. rahili.a@chu-nice.fr <rahili.a@chu-nice.fr>

Annales De Chirurgie
|July 25, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Retained fecaliths can cause rare subhepatic abscesses after appendicectomy, especially laparoscopic procedures. Early surgical drainage is crucial to prevent recurrence, and laparoscopic treatment is a novel approach.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Complications
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

  • Appendicectomy is a common surgical procedure.
  • Laparoscopic appendicectomy is increasingly performed.
  • Rare complications can arise post-appendicectomy.

Observation:

  • Subhepatic abscesses caused by retained fecaliths are rare but serious complications.
  • Two cases are presented, occurring 1-2 years after laparoscopic appendicectomy.
  • Percutaneous drainage is often unsuccessful due to retained fecaliths, leading to recurrence.

Findings:

  • Retained fecaliths are a significant cause of subhepatic abscesses post-appendicectomy.
  • Technical improvements in appendicectomy may prevent this complication.
  • Surgical drainage is the primary treatment; laparoscopic approaches are effective.
  • Laparoscopic treatment of subhepatic abscesses is a novel and successful method.

Implications:

  • Increased incidence of subhepatic abscesses is anticipated with rising laparoscopic appendicectomy rates.
  • Adherence to technical recommendations during surgery may reduce complication rates.
  • Prompt surgical intervention, preferably laparoscopic, is essential for effective treatment and prevention of recurrence.

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