[Factors determining the development of wound infection after appendectomy]

In order to illustrate which factors are of significance for the development of wound infection after appendectomy, an extensive prospective material of 2,097 patients submitted to appendectomy was analysed. Regression analyses demonstrated that age alone, employment of preoperative antibiotics (cefoxitin) and patient delay (time from onset of symptoms till admission) were of significance. The present authors conclude, on the basis of this material, that all patients over 25 years of age should be given preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis which covers aerobic and also anaerobic microorganisms. If a gangrenous or perforated appendix is found, antibiotics should be administered intraoperatively if prophylactic treatment has not been administered. In cases of perforation, antibiotics should be administered postoperatively for 72 hours.