Unique 28 cm Long Vermiform Appendix.

ABSTRACT

Vermiform appendix is a vestigial organ in human beings and situated at the ileocaecal junction. It opens into the caecum. It is a narrow tube of varying length. The normal, average length is about 5 cm to 10 cm. The longest vermiform appendix has been reported to be measuring about 25 cm. In the present case a long vermiform appendix was observed in female, formalin fixed, adult cadaver during the routine dissection for medical undergraduates. The Vermiform appendix was retrocaecal and extending to retro colic in position and its length was measured as 28 cms. When such a long vermiform appendix is present, the inflammatory conditions may simulate enteritis, salpingitis or endometriosis of the uterus. Sometimes it may herniate through a weak abdominal wall like the intestines or the peritoneum. Therefore the knowledge of the length and the position of the vermiform appendix are important clinically.