Long-term effects of appendectomy in humans: is it the optimal management of appendicitis?
Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol
; 15(6): 657-664, 2021 Jun.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-990446
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION:
Appendectomy remains the gold standard for treating uncomplicated and complicated appendicitis. However, the vermiform appendix may play a significant role in the immune system (secondary immune function) and maintain a reservoir of the normal microbiome for the human body. The aim of this study was to summarize the long-term effects after appendectomy and discuss whether appendectomy is suitable for all appendicitis patients. AREAS COVERED A comprehensive and unbiased literature search was performed in PubMed. The terms 'appendix,' 'appendicitis,' 'appendectomy,' and 'endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy' were searched in the title and/or abstract. This review summarizes the long-term effects of appendectomy on some diseases in humans and describes three methods including appendectomy, medical treatment, and an 'organ-sparing' technique, named endoscopic retrograde appendicitis therapy (ERAT) to treat appendicitis. EXPERT OPINION Appendectomy remains the first-line therapy for appendicitis. The patient's problem is appendix, not appendicitis. If we treat appendicitis, the problem should be resolved. During COVID-19, an initial antibiotic treatment of mild appendicitis represents a promising strategy. For patients who are worried about the long-term adverse effect after appendectomy and have a strong desire to preserve the appendix and are aware of the risk of appendicitis recurrence, medical treatment, or ERAT could be proposed.Keywords
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Appendectomy
/
Appendicitis
/
Postoperative Complications
/
COVID-19
Type of study:
Experimental Studies
/
Observational study
/
Prognostic study
/
Reviews
Limits:
Humans
Language:
English
Journal:
Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol
Journal subject:
Gastroenterology
Year:
2021
Document Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
17474124.2021.1868298
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