Acute appendicitis: Metronidazole as monotherapy and early intake of oral fluids

ABSTRACT

In acute appendicitis role of monotherapy still needs appreciation where there is no perforation or abscess formation. In these patients when a straightforward appendectomy has been performed early intake of oral fluids reduce patients stay in hospitals. A total number of 40 patients divided into two groups. A and B. Group A received one preoperative and two postoperative metronidazole doses and Group B received tripple therapy preoperative and for 72 hours postoperatively. Group A patients were started with oral fluids 6 hours after operation but in Group B oral fluids were started after 24 hours after listening bowel sounds. Results were same in both groups with reduction of hospital stay in Group A patients. No wound infection or complication seen in either group. Monotherapy with metronidazole is as effective as tripple therapy and early intake of oral funds can reduce hospital stay