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The 'absent' appendix
M Rolff1, L V Jepsen, J Hoffmann
1Department of Surgery, Hørsholm Hospital, Denmark.
Archives of Surgery (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|August 1, 1992
Summary
The appendix may be absent during surgery for appendicitis. This guide discusses causes and management strategies for this rare surgical finding.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Appendicitis is a common surgical emergency.
- Laparoscopic and open appendectomies are standard procedures.
Observation:
- A surgical case where the appendix was unexpectedly absent during an operation for suspected appendicitis.
Findings:
- Exploration of potential causes for appendiceal absence, including congenital agenesis and prior spontaneous resolution.
- Discussion of diagnostic challenges and differential diagnoses.
Implications:
- Provides a framework for managing patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of appendicitis but lacking an appendix.
- Highlights the importance of thorough pre-operative assessment and intra-operative exploration.