Ileocecal masses discovered unexpectedly at surgery for appendicitis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Abdominal Surgery

Background:

• Ileocecal masses discovered during appendectomy present a diagnostic challenge.
• Diverticulitis is a common cause of ileocecal masses, but malignancy must be considered.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the management and outcomes of patients presenting with ileocecal masses initially presumed to be appendicitis.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of right hemicolectomy in emergency settings for undetermined ileocecal masses.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 15 patients with ileocecal masses found during surgery for presumed appendicitis.
• Surgical intervention involving right hemicolectomy for masses of undetermined etiology.

Main Results:

• Ileocecal masses were identified in 15 patients during surgery for presumed appendicitis over five years.
• Diverticulitis accounted for nearly half of the identified ileocecal lesions.
• Right hemicolectomy was performed under emergency conditions with relative safety, even in unprepared bowel.

Conclusions:

• Right hemicolectomy is a viable and safe emergency surgical option for ileocecal masses of undetermined etiology.
• Prompt surgical intervention is crucial when malignancy cannot be excluded intraoperatively.
• Early diagnosis and management of ileocecal masses are essential to prevent complications.