Acute appendicectomy is better choice for appendicular mass

ABSTRACT

To compare the cost effectiveness, hospital stay and morbidity in each type of management of appendicular mass i.e. early surgical intervention and conservative management. A randomized comparative study. South Surgical Ward, Mayo Hospital Lahore from July, 1999 to January, 2001. 40 patients were included dividing in two equal groups. Group A patients were explored early and group B patients were managed conservatively. Cost effectiveness, hospital stay and morbidity were determined in each group. Mean hospital stay was 2.85 days [2-4 days] in group A and 6.25 days [5-8 days] in group B [p value< 0.001]. Mean expenditure in group A was Rs.1255 and Rs. 2183.75 in group B [p value < 0.001]. 100% patients in group A got complete pain relief within three days while it took 7 days for 90% of patients in group B [p value<0.001]. Oral fluids were started earlier in group A as compared to group B [p value<0.05]