[Simple ligation superior to inversion of the appendiceal stump; a prospective randomized study]

Area of Science:

• General Surgery
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Appendectomy is a common surgical procedure for acute appendicitis.
• The method of treating the appendix stump can influence postoperative outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the outcomes of simple ligation versus double invagination for the appendix stump after appendectomy.
• To determine the safest and most effective method for stump management in appendectomies.

Main Methods:

• A prospective randomized trial involving 134 patients undergoing appendectomy for acute appendicitis.
• Patients were randomly assigned to either simple ligation or double invagination of the appendix stump.
• Data collected included patient demographics, histological diagnosis, hospital stay, and complications, with a 6-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• A total of 134 appendectomies were performed: 79 with simple ligation and 55 with double invagination.
• No significant differences were observed between groups regarding age, sex, inflammation severity, antibiotic use, or hospital stay.
• The double invagination group showed a significantly higher incidence of wound infections (p = 0.017).

Conclusions:

• Simple ligation is a safe and efficient method that shortens the appendectomy procedure.
• This technique avoids caecal wall deformation and may reduce the risk of postoperative ileus.
• Simple ligation is recommended as the standard procedure for appendectomy.