[Preventive appendectomy in gynecologic surgery. Report of 1,718 cases]

In the period between 1965-1986 with a collective sum of 5369 gynecological laparotomies, the appendix was removed as a preventive measure in 1718 cases (32%). In all these cases, the recovery period proceeded without any complications. The results of the histological studies on the appendices showed an acute appendicitis in 136 cases (7.9%). In 1118 cases (65.1%) a chronic appendicitis was found, with differing severity of fibroid scarring, including total obliteration. In 96 cases (5.6%), there was evidence of carcinoid, mucocele, and endometriosis. Only 368 appendices (21.4%) were normal morphologically. The large percentage of histopathological findings confirms, that the appendix--being a rudimentary lymphatic organ--appears to be predestined for inflammatory changes. For this reason, the risk of illness and death from appendicitis remains, especially for older people. It is usually possible, to perform a prophylactic appendectomy under optimal conditions and we experienced, that this additional operation does not increase the risk to the patient. We consider, that the routine practice of the prophylactic simultaneous appendectomy during gynecological laparotomies is justified, providing, that the contra-indications mentioned are observed.